BEAMS Becomes a Trusted Support for Working Parents
In a significant achievement, BEAMS Co., Ltd. has obtained the prestigious "Kurumin Certification" recognized by the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan, effective July 25, 2025. This certification is awarded to companies that actively promote measures supporting the next generation, in accordance with Japan's Childcare Support Company Act.
Understanding Kurumin Certification
The "Kurumin Certification" serves as an acknowledgment for companies that implement action plans for supporting employees with childcare responsibilities. This initiative, based on the Act for Advancement of Measures to Support Raising the Next Generation, outlines benchmarks that must be met for certification. Companies need to develop an action plan, execute it effectively, and achieve the outlined goals to qualify as a "childcare support company."
BEAMS' Commitment to Family-Friendly Policies
At BEAMS, the action plan spans from April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2024, during which the company has made concerted efforts to create an environment that enables a healthy work-life balance alongside family responsibilities. Notably, the metrics surrounding parental leave have exceeded the certification's expectations. The data reveals remarkable figures:
- - Male Employees' Parental Leave Rate: 10% benchmark vs. 73% actual
- - Female Employees' Parental Leave Rate: 75% benchmark vs. 95% actual
- - Average Overtime Work Hours for Full-Time Workers: Monthly average benchmark of under 45 hours vs. 18.4 hours actual
These outstanding results not only highlight BEAMS' commitment to employee welfare but also reflect the company's dedication to surpassing the standards set for the Kurumin Certification. The application was submitted in alignment with the previous standards before the amendments on April 1, 2025.
BEAMS' Vision for the Future
As the company approaches its 50th anniversary in February 2026, BEAMS continues to advocate a vision titled "Happy Life Solution Communities." This vision embodies the aim of fostering vibrant and joyous societal transformations that contribute to overall happiness within communities. BEAMS is determined to create a workplace environment that allows its staff members to enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance.
What is the Kurumin Mark?
The Kurumin Mark is the official symbol awarded to businesses recognized as childcare support companies. To earn this mark, a company must not only develop an action plan but also successfully reach specific goals and meet required standards. It represents a commitment to facilitating a supportive environment for working parents.
For further details, please visit the official website:
Kurumin Certification
A Journey Through Time: The BEAMS Story
Founded in 1976 in Harajuku, Tokyo, BEAMS has pioneered a unique model of retail by launching the flagship store, "American Life Shop BEAMS." Since then, it expanded into a multi-faceted lifestyle store, showcasing a diverse range of products from fashion, home goods, music, and art, to food, continually leading the way in curating unique lifestyle experiences.
Moreover, BEAMS has built a solid reputation for creating new value through collaborations with various brands and sectors. Their creative solutions have benefited both corporate entities and public sector partnerships. With around 175 stores across Japan and the Asian region, BEAMS nurtures a culture interwoven with the products, concepts, and people essential to community living. This initiative has attracted robust support across different generations throughout various locales.
For more about BEAMS and its mission, visit:
BEAMS Company.