#Japan #Osaka #Daihatsu #Work Style #Nakagawa

Transforming Work Styles: Daihatsu and Nakagawa Shine in National Awards

On October 31, 2025, the National Work Style Transformation Awards 2025 took place at Intex Osaka, celebrating the innovative efforts of companies seeking to enhance work styles in the Kansai region. The event was focused on sharing practical, implementable examples of digital transformation and work style innovations. Six local organizations presented their pioneering initiatives, emphasizing the role of digital technologies in reshaping the workplace.

The judging criteria for this prestigious award included six key aspects: strategic thinking, penetration depth, results, reproducibility, digital utilization, and enthusiasm. Based on these criteria, the awards were announced, leading to significant recognition for Daihatsu Industrial Co., Ltd., and Nakagawa Co., Ltd.

Outstanding Awards and Innovations

Daihatsu Industrial Co., Ltd. - Grand Prize Winner

Daihatsu Industrial, known for its workforce exceeding 10,000 employees, received the grand prize for its project titled “Promoting DX through Field Leadership: Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Cultivating a Diverse Workforce.” This award recognizes their role as a leading representative of the Kinki region in the upcoming National Work Style Transformation Awards 2025, slated for December 16, 2025.

Nakagawa Co., Ltd. - Special Jury Award

Additionally, Nakagawa Co., Ltd. earned the Special Jury Award, which set them apart with their innovative approach to work style transformation that transcends traditional boundaries. Their presentation, titled “Reform in Working Styles and Well-being: Forestry DX Without Cutting Trees,” received high praise for its creativity and uplifts in promoting flexible working models.

Highlights of the Winning Initiatives

Daihatsu's DX Revolution

Daihatsu has significantly transformed its operational culture with a strong focus on field-driven Digital Transformation (DX). The key achievements include:

• - Overcoming Resistance to Digital Tools: Initially, employees were reluctant to engage with digital tools, believing “the field can’t even use PCs.” However, the DX team committed to fostering trust and knowledge by consistently engaging with field staff.
• - Empowering Employees Through AI: In just two months, key personnel were trained to implement AI solutions autonomously, leading to over 100 instances of AI applications developed internally.
• - Building a Culture of Innovation: The realization that they could create AI solutions sparked a cultural shift where employees proudly shared how they achieved what once seemed attainable only through outsourcing.
• - Combining Bottom-Up and Top-Down Approaches: Success stories from the field were presented to the executive team, reinforcing a culture of recognition and motivation that spurred company-wide enthusiasm for transformation.

Nakagawa's Pioneering Mindset

Nakagawa's journey showcases an entrepreneurial spirit derived from personal experiences. Highlights include:

• - Innovative Business Model: The founder started the business due to the lack of time to play with his child and designed a forestry business model inspired by the animation “My Neighbor Totoro.”
• - Open Source Drone Development: They introduced a self-developed drone that contributes to disaster preparedness and BCP efforts by promoting entrepreneurship nationwide.
• - Radical Approach to Work-Life Balance: Their unique consideration of employees’ well-being and work-life balance goes beyond standard practices, allowing for creative solutions that guarantee job security and employment during crises.

Other Notable Achievements

Dai-Do Group Holdings - Excellence Award

Dai-Do implemented the role of “DX Evangelists” to transform workplace culture effectively.

Novel Works - Encouragement Award

Novel Works developed a remote, flexible work environment that emphasizes results over traditional metrics.

Defrontier Inc. - Encouragement Award

Defrontier showcased how AI can enhance freelance work, creating both efficiency and psychological security.

Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. - Encouragement Award

Osaka Gas undertook extensive transformation efforts involving all employees in setting visions for their teams.

Conclusion

The National Work Style Transformation Awards served as a testament to the innovative spirit and resilience of companies striving for a transformative workplace. Daihatsu and Nakagawa have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also set benchmarks for future initiatives in work style transformation. As digital integration becomes more critical, their examples offer valuable insights for organizations seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of work.

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Event Details:

• - Event Name: National Work Style Transformation Awards 2025, Kinki Region
• - Date: October 31, 2025
• - Location: Intex Osaka, Hall 1 #5
• - Organized by: National Work Style Transformation Awards Executive Committee

This event was generously supported by SalesForce Japan and Kubell, among other institutions, highlighting the collective effort needed for impactful change in the workplace.