Unicharm Earns Bronze Plus Certification for Sports Support Initiatives

Unicharm's Commitment to Employee Health

Unicharm Corporation, led by President and CEO Takahiro Takahara, has been recognized by Japan's Sports Agency with the "Sports Yell Company 2026 Bronze Plus" certification. This accolade reflects the company's dedication to enhancing employee health and overall life performance through various initiatives aimed at increasing sports participation.

What is the Sports Yell Company Certification?

Established in 2017, the Sports Yell Company certification recognizes enterprises that are actively engaged in supporting and promoting sports activities to improve the health of their employees. The aim is to increase sports participation rates among business professionals, thereby fostering better health management and enhancing the company's social standing.

Highlights of the Certification

Unicharm has received this certification for five consecutive times, reaffirming its commitment to employee wellness over the past four years. The company has achieved a sports participation rate exceeding 70% among its employees, placing it among the top tier of certified organizations. Out of 1,635 recognized companies and organizations, only 182, or approximately 11%, reached a participation rate above 70%. This exceptional performance earned Unicharm not only the Bronze designation but also the additional Plus recognition.

Unicharm's Key Initiatives

Hybrid Radio Exercising

To combat the effects of remote work and sedentary lifestyles, Unicharm holds a company-wide radio exercising session every morning just before work begins. By leveraging online meeting systems, all employees can join in this activity simultaneously, helping to alleviate issues such as shoulder stiffness, lower back pain, and muscle weakness. This collective effort also serves to enhance communication among employees, creating a more connected work environment.

Stretching Sessions

Unicharm organizes personal stretching sessions led by professional trainers twice a month. These gatherings are hybrid events, accommodating both in-person and online participation. Each session focuses on themes relevant to the season, addressing common concerns such as shoulder pain, lower back issues, and even summer fatigue. The goal is to refresh both the mind and body of employees in accordance with their specific needs.

Physical Fitness Assessments

In Unicharm's Tokyo headquarters and the Shikoku development base, employees undergo assessments measuring flexibility, agility, muscle strength, and explosiveness. This process visualizes their "fitness age," offering individual advice from health exercise instructors. By providing insights into their physical condition, employees are encouraged to embark on new exercise routines aimed at improving their overall wellness.

The Unicharm Group has set medium- to long-term ESG goals under the 'Kyo-sei Life Vision 2035' framework—aiming for a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable world. One of the primary themes includes the promotion of health and labor safety in the workplace. The company remains committed to developing a work environment where all employees can thrive physically and mentally, enhancing their well-being.