#Japan #Tokyo #Branding #Imagina #Sekino

The Rise of Analog Organization Theories in an AI Era

On January 14, 2026, Imagina Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based company dedicated to maximizing organizations' communicative power through corporate branding and human resource development, participated in the inaugural Business Expansion Support Expo at Tokyo Big Sight. The company’s president, Yoshiki Sekino, delivered a keynote speech focusing on the theme of marketing.

In an era dominated by digital advancements, a surprising trend has emerged: numerous business leaders are increasingly interested in so-called "analog organization theories" and the intrinsic value of human capacity. Why is this shift happening? This article explores the challenges faced by Japanese companies in 2026 and the potential solutions offered through inner branding.

Background: The Triple Burden Faced by Japanese Companies in 2026

As we step into 2026, Japanese companies are grappling with unprecedented challenges. Three major issues have emerged:

1. Severe Labor Shortage: More than 50% of businesses report a lack of full-time employees, placing recruitment difficulties at the forefront of operational risks.

2. Continuous Cost Increases: The consumer price index has risen by 2.9% year-on-year, coupled with a depreciating yen, which has severely compressed profit margins.

3. Marketing Saturation: The exponential growth of content driven by generative AI has made traditional communication methods ineffective in reaching customers.

Faced with two pressing issues – the need to increase revenues through effective marketing and the struggle to attract talent – many executives are feeling the limitations of conventional symptomatic treatments. Instead of merely focusing on advertising techniques, Sekino's presentation tackled the essence of resolution: maximizing employee passion and strengthening brand identity. This fundamental approach resonated deeply with an audience eager for viable solutions.

Seminar Highlights: Three Paradigm Shifts That Energized the Audience

The seminar titled "Marketing in 2026 Returns to 'People'" illuminated several compelling concepts that sparked significant audience engagement:

• - Changing the Subject of Marketing: Sekino emphasized that in an age where AI can generate catchy slogans, differentiating based solely on features or pricing is impossible. The unique elements that AI cannot replicate are "the enthusiasm of the employees" and the "corporate culture." Shifting the focus of marketing from products to people and organizations is crucial for becoming a preferred brand.

• - No Digital Transformation Without Fundamental Education: He highlighted that introducing cutting-edge marketing automation tools and AI would be futile if the people utilizing them lack emotional intelligence (EQ). His proposed "fundamental education" – encompassing basic values such as greetings, gratitude, and altruism – is not outdated morality but rather a rational business skill essential for capturing customer insights and building trust relationships.

• - Inner Branding as a Dual Solution for Recruitment and Sales: Companies where employees resonate with their corporate philosophy and work with shining eyes naturally attract customers and prospective employees. Engaging in inner branding, which integrates brand values, can simultaneously reduce marketing and recruitment costs, yielding an excellent return on investment.

Attendee Feedback: Insights from the Audience

Attendee feedback offered a glimpse into the profound impact of Sekino’s presentation:

• - "I came thinking it was a marketing seminar, but I was pleasantly surprised. Reevaluating our organization’s philosophy can lead to the strongest customer acquisition outcomes." (CEO of an IT Firm)

• - "Despite standing for long periods, my heart was energized. Sekino’s challenge to create a society where investing in talent is the norm resonated deeply with my commitment as a CEO." (HR Manager in Manufacturing)

• - "I had focused primarily on tactics until now. Starting tomorrow, I want to engage with each employee and draft a culture book." (Marketing Director in Retail)

Speaker Profile

Yoshiki Sekino, the President of Imagina Co., Ltd., moved to the U.S. at the age of 15 and launched a business in New York at 26. Following diverse international business experiences in London and Italy, he founded Imagina in 2006. With a mission to create a society where investing in human resources is the norm, he has become a mentor to numerous executives. His notable publications include "The Blueprint for Empathetic Value" and "The Power of Management."

Company Overview

• - Name: Imagina Co., Ltd.
• - CEO: Yoshiki Sekino
• - Address: 3-5-2 Koujimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0083, Japan
• - Founded: June 2006
• - Services: Corporate branding, consulting, corporate training
• - Website: www.imajina.com

For Inquiries
Imagina Co., Ltd.
Contact: Minami Aoe
Phone: 03-3511-5525
Fax: 03-3511-8228
Email: [email protected]