STAFF OF THE YEAR 2025: A New Contender Arises
The anticipation is palpable as the 'STAFF OF THE YEAR 2025' competition kicks off its second stage starting June 24, 2025. This unparalleled event celebrates the most charismatic retail staff in the Reiwa era, organized by Staff Tech Co., Ltd., under the umbrella of Vannish Standard, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo. With the official online voting now open, it’s time to show support for your favorite staff members by casting your votes at the dedicated website.
Competition Overview
the 'STAFF OF THE YEAR 2025' features a robust process this year, building on the foundation set in the first stage that showcased talent from 3,000 brands across the globe. A total of
1,959 staff members have successfully advanced to the second stage, drawn from the ranks of participants using the 'STAFF START' application service.
This year, for the very first time, the contest will be divided into
two categories: Apparel and Retail, encompassing a wide array of brands that have joined the competition. From now until
July 23, online performance metrics, along with the results of the online voting, will help select the top
30 finalists who will progress to the
third stage.
Progress Indicators for the 3rd Stage
To garner a spot in the third stage, contestants need to excel under three distinct criteria:
- - Top 16 in Nationwide Apparel Rankings
- - Top 6 in Nationwide Retail Rankings
- - Top 1 in Regional Block Rankings (limited to 7 regions for Apparel category only)
- - Top 1 in U-23 Rankings (for Apparel category only, targeting participants under 23 years with less than two years of sales experience)
The introduction of the U-23 category aims to highlight and provide opportunities for fresh and dynamic talent within the industry, encouraging young staff to shine in the spotlight.
Online Voting: Join the Excitement!
One of the standout features of the 'STAFF OF THE YEAR' is the lively campaign on social media. Participants, their respective companies, and enthusiastic supporters will rally through platforms such as Instagram, contributing to a vibrant movement as they cheer on their favorites. This year, voters can cast
up to 10 votes daily for their preferred staff members via the contest's special website, renewing their voting rights every day at midnight. Additionally, engaging content such as self-introduction videos and stylish ensemble displays will also count towards each staff member’s support points based on likes received.
Details of the Competition Schedule
The phases in the competition unfold as follows:
- - 2nd Stage: June 24 – July 23, 2025: Finalists selected based on unique assessment criteria, coupled with online voting results.
- - 3rd Stage: August 12 - 28, 2025: Building on results from the previous round and incorporating real-world customer service evaluations to determine finalists for the Grand Finale.
- - Final Stage: October 9, 2025, at Shibuya Hikarie Hall. The title of 'STAFF OF THE YEAR 2025' will be confirmed based on a combination of scores from a special panel of judges and online voting totals.
Support the Future of Retail
As the contest celebrates its fifth milestone anniversary this year, a
new Retail category has been introduced alongside the prevailing Apparel section. The aim is to foster an environment where the next generation can truly flourish, showcasing innovation and customer engagement in both online and offline arenas.
For brands interested in supporting this competition, sponsorship opportunities are currently available, allowing companies to participate in recognizing and elevating the industry’s rising stars.
For more details or inquiries, contact:
STAFF OF THE YEAR 2025 Executive Committee
Email: soty@v-standard.com
About STAFF START
STAFF START is a transformative tool enabling retail staff to engage customers via their own e-commerce sites and social media, opening avenues for recognition based on their performance. With participation from over 3,000 brands spanning categories from apparel to food, STAFF START is making a significant mark in how customer interaction and engagement are perceived and rewarded in the retail landscape.