#Japan #Tokyo #STREAM #Ripple #吉川大空

The Visionary Approach of RIPPLE: Investing in Employee Potential

In a bold move that aligns with its corporate philosophy, RIPPLE Co., Ltd., the parent company of the rapidly expanding personal gym chain "STREAM," has implemented extensive reforms in its human resources system. Led by CEO Sora Yoshikawa, RIPPLE is dedicated to proving the potential of individuals by significantly elevating employee conditions. The company is not only increasing the base salary of all employees by 20,000 yen but also eliminating presumed overtime to create a more transparent labor framework. As they aim for impressive targets of 1.5 billion yen in sales and expanding to 30 locations, RIPPLE prioritizes the foundation that allows employees to take risks and challenge themselves comfortably, moving beyond merely short-term profits.

A Transformational Leadership Declaration

CEO Sora Yoshikawa announced at their kickoff meeting that he plans to step down from his role in three years. By doing so, he seeks to transition RIPPLE from a charisma-driven organization to one sustained by a well-structured leadership and development framework. His goal is to cultivate five executive leaders from within the staff and fully realize human resources, hiring, and training systems that empower every participant in the company's journey towards unlocking potential and achieving collective success.

Three Pillars of Human Resources Reform

RIPPLE aims to create an environment where employees can thrive professionally and reach their full potential through its revamped HR system, focused on three primary pillars:

1. Uniform 20,000 yen Base Salary Increase: By raising the base salary instead of relying on temporary bonuses, RIPPLE is setting a reward structure that assures employees more stability over the long term, thus encouraging them to pursue career growth and take on new challenges.

2. Elimination of Presumed Overtime: By fully separating base salaries from overtime compensation, RIPPLE ensures all labor hours are transparent. This policy allows for compensation based on actual working hours, promoting a healthy work-life balance and sustaining employee engagement.

3. New Evaluation System: The company is introducing a system that not only assesses numerical performance but also evaluates service quality and contribution to team success. By visualizing what employees need to do to advance, this approach offers clear developmental pathways for younger staff, fostering their growth and engagement.

The Symbolism of the 1 Million Yen Bingo

Every six months, RIPPLE holds a kickoff meeting gathering all employees—more than just a casual get-together, this event acts as a crucial touchpoint for embodying the company's philosophy. During this meeting, the CEO shares the vision while awarding store teams with high annual contracts. The highlight is a bingo event offering prizes valued at 1 million yen, including MacBooks and luxury travel vouchers. Such initiatives are designed to convert individual success into collective excitement, helping employees feel recognized and invested in their growth and the company’s goals.

RIPPLE’s journey was not without turbulence, as five out of six founding members left shortly after the company’s establishment due to early struggles. However, focusing on organizational development paid off, with staff numbers growing to 100 in just six years. The emphasis on team celebrations and rewards demonstrates their commitment to fostering a collaborative environment where accolades extend beyond personal achievements.

A Message from the CEO

Sora Yoshikawa, founder of RIPPLE, remarks, "The fitness industry has relied heavily on individual trainers' passions. However, that approach limits the potential of individuals. I intend to step down in three years to elevate RIPPLE into an organization powered by the collective talents of 100 young individuals. Our recent raises and high-value rewards are steps towards this goal. We aim to showcase that we can achieve greatness together, not as dependents on one person’s charisma."

With a backstory encompassing core values established through experiences in emergency services and rampant entrepreneurial challenges, Yoshikawa's journey illustrates the rigorous discipline, tenacity, and commitment necessary for building a nation-leading gym brand. Founded in November 2020, RIPPLE now operates 14 direct locations and is pushing towards nationwide expansion. Their drive is fueled by the ambition to craft the most distinguished fitness empire in Japan.

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Company Overview:

• - Company Name: RIPPLE Co., Ltd.
• - CEO: Sora Yoshikawa
• - Business Activities: Operations of personal gym "STREAM" and food service.
• - Current Goals: Targeting 1.5 billion yen in revenue and establishing 30 locations.
• - Official YouTube: Shortpants Sora’s Personal Gym Revolution
• - Official Website: RIPPLE Website
• - Recruitment Site: RIPPLE Recruitment