#Japan #Toyota #Tokyo #SDGs Ranking #Consumer Evaluation

Top 100 Companies for SDGs: Insights from the 2025 Survey

In a comprehensive analysis of corporate social responsibility, the latest SDGs survey has designated the top 100 firms in Japan based on consumer evaluations of their sustainability efforts. Conducted through a robust methodology, this survey gathered responses from over 30,000 individuals across various demographics, ensuring balanced representation by age and gender. This marks the sixth iteration of the corporate SDGs survey, reflecting ongoing engagement with sustainable development goals (SDGs) across the corporate sector.

Survey Methodology

The SDGs evaluation was based on responses from individuals who were presented with a list of ten companies. Participants were asked to assess their perceptions of each company’s commitment to the SDGs through options ranging from “fully engaged” to “not engaged at all.” The resulting SDGs score was calculated using a specific formula that weighs the answers of the respondents. This meticulous approach lends credibility to the findings, which can be pivotal for companies looking to enhance their public image and contribute to global sustainability.

Top Performers in SDGs

Leading the pack as the most highly rated company for the sixth consecutive year is Toyota Motor Corporation, scoring an impressive 21.5 points. This accolade reflects a significant percentage of respondents who view Toyota as genuinely committed to sustainability, with 15.0% declaring that the company is fully engaged and 20.1% stating they feel it is somewhat engaged. Close behind is Suntory, with a score of 21.0 points, where its lead in genuine engagement percentage surpasses that of Toyota. The company’s continued commitment to sustainability is also notable, having transitioned from a previous ranking of 7th in 2024.

Third place belongs to Uniqlo with an 18.4 score, demonstrating a notable improvement from its prior scores. Meanwhile, Kao Corporation, despite slipping one position to fourth place, remains the highest-rated in the paper and chemical industries.

From fifth to tenth ranks, scores show a remarkable increase. For example, Kirin Brewery's commitment has also surged, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of responsible production and consumption.

Insight into Rankings and Trends

The 2025 survey revealed promising trends as companies such as Kewpie, Panasonic, and Kagome exhibit substantial improvements in their engagement with the SDGs. Kewpie’s focus on eradicating poverty garnered high recognition, while Panasonic's advancements in education and climate-related goals also underpinned its rise in rankings. Notably, Sumitomo Forestry made headlines by topping its group in construction and real estate, exemplifying effective alignment with sustainable urban development goals.

The analysis showed a shift in public perception, with many companies substantially raising their commitment levels. Businesses like Epson and Suzuki also witnessed significant jumps in their rankings, highlighting an industry-wide embrace of sustainable practices.

Ranks 51 to 100: Notable Risers

Among companies ranked 51 to 100, many also improved their standings dramatically. Companies such as Unicharm and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries saw notable increases in their scores, particularly excelling in gender equality and innovation-related endeavors. This sector-wide trend indicates a collective movement toward recognizing the value of sustainability in corporate strategy.

Many companies are now seen as proponents of industry change, striving to build a more sustainable future through conscious engagement with global challenges. Survey insights underscore that the integration of SDGs within corporate frameworks is not merely a trend but a necessity for ongoing success and public favor in today's rapidly changing market.

The survey also prompted ideas for further inquiries into specific companies' contributions to SDGs, reflecting a push for continued transparency and accountability in corporate sustainability efforts.

Conclusion

The findings of the 2025 SDGs survey assert that corporate responsibility efforts are being recognized by consumers like never before. With the top 100 companies demonstrating that sustainability can drive business success, it's clear that the integration of SDGs in business models is not just a regulatory compliance issue, but a vital ingredient for future competitive advantage. Companies eager to build a more sustainable business model can take note of the practices and commitments of those leading the charge in the SDGs landscape.

For further detailed reports or the Excel data of the rankings, media representatives can reach out to the Brand Research Institute for access. This ongoing study highlights how consumer attitudes are shaping the corporate landscape towards a more sustainable future.