Makichie's Brand Image Advertisement Wins Silver at the 67th Japan Magazine Advertising Awards

Makichie's Triumph in Advertisement

In a notable achievement, Makichie Co., Ltd. has secured the Silver Award at the 67th Japan Magazine Advertising Awards. This award, which highlights excellence in magazine advertising, was given for Makichie’s brand image advertisement titled "Kikohe wa Kizuna" featured in the popular magazine "Croissant," published by Magazine House. The award emphasizes the campaign's focus on fostering connections through sound, reinforcing Makichie's commitment to quality and innovation in the hearing aid industry.

The advertisement was crafted by Embedded Blue, a creative studio based in Shinagawa, Tokyo. Under the guidance of Director Sho Kataoka, the studio meticulously translated Makichie’s corporate philosophy—aiming to enrich society through hearing aids—into an engaging visual narrative and copy. The advertisement encapsulates various sounds that individuals cherish, from the words of loved ones to the gentle murmur of rivers, highlighting that everyone's hearing needs are unique. Makichie regards hearing aids not merely as devices, but as essential partners catering to diverse hearing needs.

This visionary approach encourages users to embrace hearing aids stylishly and positively, alleviating the stigma often associated with these devices. Makichie strives to match individuals with the ideal hearing aids while nurturing valuable connections with those around them. The company is committed to continuous growth, ensuring that their products enhance users' lives and strengthen social ties.

About the Japan Magazine Advertising Awards

Established in 1958 and supported by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Japan Magazine Advertising Awards is organized by the Japan Magazine Advertisement Association. It aims to improve the quality of magazine advertising and contribute to the advancement of industry, economy, society, and culture. Each year, the awards recognize exceptional advertising works published over the past year, celebrating creativity and technical excellence.

Jury Comments on the Award

This year, judges provided insightful feedback on Makichie’s submission, noting:

- "The styling of the advertisement, including the ear accessories, is incredibly cute and appealing."
- "It highlights the potential for hearing aids to be perceived positively in the fashion spectrum."
- "The advertisement effectively merges the public interest with communal benefit, showcasing the essence of hearing aids."

The success in depicting hearing aids as desirable accessories aligns with the project’s core theme, and the acknowledgment of merging public and communal values greatly honors Makichie's philosophy. The positive reception encourages the company to continue delivering an uplifting image of hearing aids, integrating them seamlessly into daily life while connecting people.

Comments from CEO Tomoyoshi Hiramatsu

Tomoyoshi Hiramatsu, the CEO of Makichie, expressed, "I believe that 'hearing aids' symbolize kindness and love. They not only enhance hearing but also resonate with people's hearts, lighting up daily life in a gentle yet impactful way. Sound embodies memory, discovery, and, most importantly, a bond between individuals. We are dedicated to ensuring that sounds reach people comfortably and accurately, aspiring to share love through our hearing aids. The advertisement, 'Kikohe wa Kizuna,' encapsulates this vision. As Makichie, we aspire to support the joy of hearing throughout the lives of individuals, standing by their side."

Overview of Makichie Co., Ltd.

Celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, Makichie Co., Ltd. is a comprehensive hearing aid company engaged in everything from development to manufacturing and sales. Under the belief that hearing aids, as medical devices, should be managed within healthcare settings, the company provides consultations facilitated by their own hearing aid coordinators across the nation. By the end of 2025, they aim to operate 40 direct stores throughout Japan, offering tailored hearing aids to every customer.

About Embedded Blue

Embedded Blue is a creative studio that develops diverse projects across digital and print media, focusing on advertising and collaborative artistic projects. They aim to design projects that promote a vibrant artistic society, leveraging skills and creativity from a robust team of creators and business professionals from various industries.