#Japan #Tokyo #Employee Ownership #Ownership Works

Ownership Works Expands Its Global Reach with New Affiliate in Japan

On October 20, 2025, Ownership Works, a progressive nonprofit organization from the United States, announced the launch of Ownership Works Japan, its first international affiliate. This expansion is a significant step toward establishing a global movement dedicated to shared employee ownership. The initiative aims to provide all employees an opportunity to build financial security and wealth through their work.

Embarking on a Global Journey

The launch event took place in Tokyo and garnered support from over 20 partners across the public and private sectors. Ownership Works already has a commendable track record, having facilitated ownership participation for more than 250,000 employees across 167 companies, resulting in a remarkable $1.3 billion in wealth generated for workers. With projections estimating an additional $10 billion in future payouts from ongoing ownership programs, the organization is keen to accelerate its mission globally.

Pete Stavros, the founder and chairman, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, "Ownership Works Japan marks the beginning of our global expansion, with Tokyo as the starting point for a worldwide network." He emphasized Japan's storied history of workforce collaboration and empowerment as a unique backdrop for this initiative.

Capitalizing on a Unique Opportunity

The timing for this launch could not be better. Current trends in Japan, including increasing domestic and foreign investments, a rise in merger and acquisition activity, and a government focus on expanding household asset ownership, create a fertile environment for innovative changes in workplace culture. The coalition of Japanese investors and business leaders backing this program indicates a strong appetite for implementing broad-based equity programs that enhance employee engagement and financial well-being.

At the launch event, Fumiaki Kobayashi, a member of Japan’s House of Representatives, spoke passionately about creating a cycle of growth and wealth distribution that benefits both companies and local communities. The connection between corporate value enhancement and employee ownership was a central theme of his address, highlighting its vital role in Japan's future economic sustainability.

Addressing Employee Engagement Challenges

In contrast to its collaborative workplace tradition, Japan has long struggled with low employee engagement levels. According to Gallup's 2025 report, a mere 7% of workers in Japan feel engaged in their work. This figure is starkly juxtaposed against the country’s incredibly low employee turnover rates, reflecting a deep-rooted loyalty to employers. Ownership Works seeks to harness this loyalty and convert it into increased engagement through shared ownership, potentially transforming the financial prospects of many workers as they face rising living costs and financial insecurity.

Early Moves Towards Shared Ownership

Several Japanese companies are already exploring ownership models. In 2024, Bushu Pharma pioneered broad-based ownership in Japan with the backing of a private financial sponsor, while the financial software provider Yayoi followed suit in 2025. These pioneering steps suggest a growing commitment to leveraging employee ownership as a strategy for improved performance and inclusive growth.

Hiro Hirano, board chair of Ownership Works Japan, remarked on the transformative potential of ownership cultures in Japan, stating, "By allowing workers to participate directly in the value they help create, we can enhance engagement, stimulate innovation, and contribute to sustainable economic growth. Shared ownership aligns well with Japan's tradition of long-term partnerships between employers and employees while enabling households to achieve greater financial security."

A Broad Coalition of Support

Ownership Works Japan is launching with robust backing from various prominent financial and investment firms, professional service organizations, and limited partners including big names like KKR, Nippon Investment Company, and Warburg Pincus among others. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the successful deployment of shared ownership models in the region.

A Step Towards Global Change

Since its inception in 2022, Ownership Works has garnered a vast range of partners and has evolved into a meaningful global movement. The launch of its Japan affiliate marks a significant milestone, reinforcing the collective effort to empower workers globally through ownership opportunities. As Anna-Lisa Miller, Executive Director of Ownership Works stated, "The launch of Ownership Works Japan demonstrates what is achievable when leaders unite under a shared vision to empower every employee to build wealth at work and take pride in ownership."

For more information on Ownership Works Japan, visit japan.ownershipworks.org.