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Lotte Holdings Earns Gold for LGBTQ+ Initiatives in 2025 PRIDE Index

Lotte Holdings Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, announced on its latest achievements in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity in the workplace. The company, alongside Lotte Co., Ltd., has been awarded the highest rating, "Gold," for the second consecutive year in the "PRIDE Index 2025". This index, initiated by the non-profit organization work with Pride, evaluates companies' efforts in creating supportive environments for sexual minorities, including LGBTQ+ individuals.

Lotte Group believes that nurturing diverse employees is key to fostering innovation. Thus, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) serves as a crucial pillar in their corporate strategy. The recent accolade reflects the company’s commitment through a variety of initiatives, from implementing same-sex partnership policies to continuous awareness-raising activities and community engagement.

What is the PRIDE Index?

The PRIDE Index, established in 2016, is Japan's first evaluative framework for companies and organizations focused on LGBTQ+ issues. It encompasses five areas for assessment: Policy (action declaration), Representation (involvement of the community), Inspiration (awareness activities), Development (HR programs), and Engagement/Empowerment (social contribution and outreach activities). Companies are rated as Gold, Silver, or Bronze based on their scores across these criteria.

Lotte Group’s 2025 LGBTQ+ Initiatives

1. Policy
Lotte Group positions DEI as a key component of their corporate strategy. They have publicly released their human rights policy and action charter, clearly stating their stance against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

2. Representation
- Formation and Expansion of Ally Community:
The company continuously promotes the expansion of the “ALLY” community, comprising individuals who understand and support LGBTQ+ issues. As of November 2025, the number of registered ALLEYS has reached 300.
- Establishment of External Consultation Channels:
To ensure employees, including those who identify as LGBTQ+, can seek assistance comfortably, Lotte has added an external consultation service through professionals in addition to their internal support system, strengthening the support framework.

3. Inspiration
- Screening of Films for Allies:
In February 2025, an online lunch screening event was held for ALLEYS, featuring the short film "The Fish of One Sleeve," which presents the transgender experience. Following the screening, experts conducted discussions to foster a deeper understanding of the realities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Creation of Original Employee ID Holders:
To promote visibility of LGBTQ+ allies, Lotte created original "LGBTQ+ ALLY Employee ID Holders". This campaign coincided with Pride Month in June, inviting registrations at events held in their headquarters’ cafeteria.

4. Development
- Implementation of Same-Sex Partnership Policies:
Starting in the 2024 fiscal year, same-sex partnerships will be defined as "spouses" for benefits usage, including leave and allowances. The company has provided a guide to all employees to ensure clear understanding of the policy.

5. Engagement/Empowerment
- Participation in Tokyo Pride Parade 2025:
On June 8, 2025, Lotte participated in the Tokyo Pride Parade as a supportive company of the “LGBT-Ally project,” engaging in collaborative cheering events and wearing original t-shirts and tote bags to support parade participants.
- Hosting Joint DEI Forum:
In September 2025, Lotte hosted an online talk event entitled “What Does ‘Being Yourself’ Mean? – Considering Diversity,” featuring talent Haruna Ai. The talk, based on her personal experiences, emphasized the importance of empathizing with and understanding diverse identities.

Moving forward, Lotte Group remains committed to enhancing DEI initiatives, striving to create an environment where all employees can flourish as their true selves. Through these efforts, they aim to contribute to innovation and build a more inclusive society.