#Japan #Coca-Cola #Minato-ku #Parenting Support #Work-Life Balance

New Childcare Support Initiatives by Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, under the leadership of CEO Karin Dragan, is set to introduce innovative support measures aimed at helping employees balance parenting and career development. Commencing from October 2025, these initiatives specifically target female employees who return to work within six months after childbirth. The goal is to expand maternity benefits and create a conducive work environment that respects career growth during life stages involving childbirth and parenting. By offering diverse support options, the company aims to assist each employee in their smooth transition back to work.

Newly Introduced Support Measures

These measures will be available to employees from their early return to work until their child turns two years old. Here are the key initiatives being introduced:

• - Sick Childcare Services: In response to unexpected illnesses, the company will partner with childcare facilities and subsidize registration fees and monthly dues, providing employees with more options.
• - Utilization of Babysitters: Employees will have the opportunity to use babysitter vouchers from the Children and Families Agency monthly, significantly reducing personal expenses related to childcare.
• - Housekeeping Services: The company will negotiate corporate rates for these services and provide partial subsidies based on monthly usage.
• - Support for Company-Operated Nurseries: To broaden nursery options, the company will establish contracts between businesses to facilitate enrollment.
• - Additional Support: For areas where babysitting and housekeeping services are unavailable, the company will subsidize alternative service costs.

The infancy stage requires significant attention due to challenges like night crying and sudden fevers. By providing services such as sick childcare, babysitters, and housekeeping, the company aims to alleviate the worries of employees who wish to return to work early, ensuring they can do so with confidence. Furthermore, the company utilizes a comprehensive childbirth and childcare guidebook, along with a return-to-work hearing sheet, to foster discussions and gain support from colleagues and supervisors. This approach encourages female employees to make flexible decisions about their return based on their personal circumstances and childcare needs.

To further support those seeking early return, managers and HR will collaborate to tailor working conditions and support options, reinforcing a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and parenting.

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan remains committed to enhancing the diverse working styles and well-being of each employee. By doing this, the company aims to boost both individual and organizational performance, fostering a culture where diversity is viewed as a strength leading to success. With a blend of varied talents working together, the company seeks to drive sustainable growth and enhance corporate value through transformational initiatives.

References

• - Insights and growth from parental leave? A report on "Calin’s Café × Parental Leave" discussion led by our CEO. Here
• - Achieving a 100% parental leave utilization rate for male employees. Details
• - Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan's commitment to respecting diversity. Learn More

Note: Information in this news release is accurate as of the release date and may be subject to change. Please check for the most current information.