#Japan #Tokyo #Ajinomoto #Dentsu #Nikka Whisky

Dentsu Group's Session at Cannes Lions 2026

Dentsu Group, a leading player in the global marketing industry, participated in the prestigious Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2026. Set in the beautiful coastal city of Cannes, France, Dentsu organized an intriguing session titled "Stakeholder Centricity – At the Heart of Japan’s Creativity." This event featured prominent speakers from Nikka Whisky, Heralabony, and Ajinomoto, all discussing the unique elements of Japan's creativity influenced by stakeholder perspectives.

The purpose behind Dentsu's initiative is to establish itself as a "Growth Partner" for its clients, focusing on facilitating sustainable growth over the long-term. Collaborating with Nikka Whisky, a brand renowned for its global growth and innovative marketing strategies, Heralabony, which is making waves in the creative industry, and Ajinomoto, a leader in culinary products, the session aimed at deeply exploring how creativity can be centered around the stakeholder experience.

The panel, moderated by Dentsu's branding consultant, Futaba Hara, included speakers such as:

• - Nomi Oda, Brand Manager from Nikka Whisky
• - Megumi Kobayashi, Chief Business Officer at Heralabony
• - Hironari Tatematsu, Manager of Communication Design at Ajinomoto

In today’s technologically advanced world, the conduct and values of corporations are more transparent and subject to scrutiny than ever before. Consistent and sincere communication from businesses, coupled with genuine efforts, is crucial. The focus has shifted not only to "what to provide to whom" but also to "with whom to co-create value." This aligns with a growing necessity for companies to build brand value through relationships with diverse stakeholders, including consumers, shareholders, employees, and communities, shifting the corporate landscape.

Amidst this evolving dynamic, Japanese companies are exhibiting a distinctive approach rooted in prioritizing long-term relationships and social harmony. By leveraging stakeholder expectations and aspirations as catalysts for creativity, these businesses are demonstrating an increased importance in their corporate purpose and social responsibilities.

The session underscored the significance of transforming the expectations and thoughts of crucial stakeholders into actionable strategies. Attendees were reminded that the true essence of brand value lies in the synergies created when products and services are delivered to and embraced by consumers.

During the event, attendees enjoyed Nikka Whisky's beloved Taketsuru Pure Malt and sampled Heralabony's unique 'Dentsu Beach House Original Cup.' Additionally, Ajinomoto's delicious gyoza was provided to further enrich the experience, illustrating the blend of creativity and collaboration that characterized the session.

Dentsu is committed to continuing its role as a "Growth Partner," fostering the creation of new values in collaboration with its clients and diverse partners, ultimately contributing to sustainable and long-term growth in the marketing industry.

For media inquiries, please contact the Dentsu Group Corporate Communication Office, including Kozima, Shimazu, and Harada, at Email: [email protected].