#Japan #Tokyo #In-store Marketing #JPM Award #POP Advertising

Enhancing the Shopping Experience: JPM Award 2026

The JPM Award 2026 for in-store marketing has officially opened its doors for entries, starting from July 15 through September 7. Organized by the Japan Promotional Marketing Association (JPMA), this award marks the 55th anniversary of its dedication to promoting creative and effective Point of Purchase (POP) advertising.

The primary objective of this award is to recognize and celebrate outstanding POP advertisements and promotional displays that enrich consumers' purchasing experiences. This event is the largest of its kind in Japan, boasting 30 separate entry categories dedicated to various aspects of in-store marketing. By leveraging this competition, the association aims to elevate the societal recognition of in-store marketing practices.

Evolution of In-Store Advertising

With the rapid advancement of digital technology and the rise of social media, consumer purchasing behaviors have fundamentally transformed. The JPM Award embraces this evolution by expanding the definition of in-store advertising beyond traditional methods. It encourages submissions that include engaging store signs designed to attract shoppers, tools that facilitate product searching or sharing on social media, and even temporary promotional spaces like pop-up shops. The award seeks innovative ideas that can redefine the consumer interaction within retail spaces.

Event Overview and Schedule

Here are the key details for prospective entrants:

• - Entry Period: July 15, 2026 - September 7, 2026
• - Application Method: Interested entrants can apply through the dedicated online registration page at JPM Show.
• - Eligible Works: Submissions must include POP advertising and in-store marketing materials utilized between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026.
• - Judging Timeline:

Preliminary Judging (photo and document review): September 2026
Secondary and Final Judging (physical evaluation): December 15, 2026

Exhibition of Award-Winning Works:

• - Dates: December 16-18, 2026
• - Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center, Hamamatsucho 3rd Floor, during the 55th Japan Promotional Marketing Show 2026.

Awards Structure

Awards will be presented across various categories, including Gold and Silver for exceptional works. Among the Gold winners, the prestigious Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award will be granted. Additionally, particular works may earn a Special Jury Award for outstanding contributions, while the Audience Award will be determined by visitor voting at the exhibition.

Judging Panel

Preliminary Round: 10 members from the JPMA committee

Secondary Round: 20 judges, including 10 selected representatives from member companies

Final Round: 9 experts and industry leaders conducting rigorous evaluations.

Lead Judge: Takao Yamagata, an esteemed professor from Tama Art University.
Other notable judges include prominent figures from various esteemed universities and industry organizations, such as Tsuyoshi Terai, Ikue Morishita, and Takeya Kurabayashi.

How to Enter

For full details on submissions and criteria, please visit the JPMA official website.

• - Online Entry: JPM Entry Page
• - Award Overview: JPM Award Overview

The Japan Promotional Marketing Association, established in 1969, consists of various companies involved in enhancing consumer engagement through promotional marketing.

For inquiries regarding the award, please contact Esaku at the Japan Promotional Marketing Association via email at [email protected].