Softbrain Partners with BREAK for Innovative Marketing Initiative
In a remarkable collaboration that promises to reshape business communication, Softbrain Corporation has joined forces with BREAK, an office smoking area signage media operated by Kosodo and New Technology. Starting July 21, 2026, this partnership will introduce a tailored content segment called "BREAK TIMES," aimed at highlighting the effectiveness of Softbrain's premier CRM/SFA tool, "esm(eSalesManager)." This initiative seeks to engage the modern business professional with relevant insights during their breakout moments at work.
The program will be hosted by popular free announcer and actor Misato Ugaki, and will reach an impressive audience of approximately 6.6 million viewers each month. By leveraging the high visibility and engagement of "BREAK TIMES," Softbrain aims to clearly communicate how their tool can address CRM issues specific to Japanese businesses, illustrating real-world case studies and benefits.
The Background of This Initiative
Softbrain has been a pioneering force in the CRM/SFA sector since the product launch in 1999. With deep roots in addressing the unique challenges of Japanese businesses, their flagship tool, "esm", boasts over 6000 installations across 185 industries. The tool has become known for enhancing transparency in sales activities and improving information sharing among teams, making significant strides in operational efficiency and organizational structure.
As the interest in AI solutions grows, "esm" continues to serve as a robust data foundation for customer interactions. However, the company recognizes the need to expand its visibility, particularly among decision-makers in the B2B space. In early 2026, Softbrain initiated a campaign utilizing the BREAK media to enhance brand recognition. Recent studies showed not only increased awareness of the "esm" tool but also a surge in website traffic following viewers' exposure to the content from BREAK.
Innovative Approach to Brand Engagement
Differentiating from traditional advertising, this new initiative will integrate a format where Softbrain appears during the content of the segment. It's tailored not just for generating recognition but also for deepening understanding of the value that "esm" brings to its users. With the aim of educating the audience, Softbrain hopes to create meaningful connections and insights that resonate with their professional lives.
About "BREAK TIMES"
"BREAK TIMES" is a break-time information program aired on the digital signage media located in urban office smoking areas. With Misato Ugaki at the helm, it presents themes surrounding work, lifestyle, and the latest trends, providing business professionals with new insights and discoveries. Here are some unique features of this innovative media:
- - Objective Communication: By delivering information in a news format rather than traditional advertising, the approach minimizes promotional overtones, ensuring credible and reliable communication.
- - High Frequency Engagement: Leveraging the characteristics of smoking areas, where business professionals spend an average of six minutes on each of approximately five visits per day, the media provides repeated exposure, gradually guiding recognition to understanding.
- - Effective Targeting: With direct access to decision-makers—including executives and senior professionals in urban office settings—Softbrain can efficiently reach its target audience, making it ideal for B2B engagements.
About "esm(eSalesManager)"
Since launching Japan's first CRM/SFA solution in August 1999, Softbrain has offered transformative solutions that span marketing, sales, and after-services through both IT and service domains. "esm(eSalesManager)" stands out for its ability to centralize customer information and streamline sales activities, promoting effective collaboration across organizations. Integration with automated marketing tools further enhances its functionality.
With exceptional customer success rates and over 95% satisfaction from its extensive client base, Softbrain remains committed to maximizing productivity through tailored consulting services. The company is focused on addressing diverse client needs, providing comprehensive training, and ensuring consistent utilization of its systems. For more information on their products, visit
Softbrain.
As Softbrain prepares for this significant collaboration, it marks an exciting evolution in how businesses can engage with technology through innovative and approachable media.
For media inquiries, please contact Ayako Akimoto, Public Relations and Marketing Department, at Softbrain Corporation.