#Japan #Tokyo #DEI Initiative #International Kogyo #Thanks Share

International Kogyo Launches 'Thanks Share' to Support Employees on Parental Leave

International Kogyo Co., Ltd., located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has recently announced the launch of a new initiative called the 'Thanks Share' program, effective from April 1, 2026. This program is part of the company's efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the workplace. The goal is to create an environment where employees do not hesitate to take necessary breaks for significant life events like parenting or caregiving, recognizing and rewarding the contributions made by team members who support their colleagues during such times.

Aiming for a Supportive Work Environment

The introduction of the 'Thanks Share' program stems from the intention to address the concerns some employees may have about leaving work for parental or caregiving duties. By fostering a culture of awareness and strengthening organizational support, the company aims to eliminate the feeling of creating a burden on their colleagues. Instead, it seeks to establish a mechanism that values and acknowledges the efforts of those who take over responsibilities during an employee's absence.

Overview of the 'Thanks Share' Program

The program works by maintaining the value of work being done in the absence of the employee while providing recognition via the 'Thanks Share' system for those who contribute to this support. This initiative goes beyond just providing financial compensation; it expresses a heartfelt gratitude from the employees on leave to those who step in to assist during their absence. It embodies a spirit of sharing responsibilities while appreciating the support extended by co-workers.

Key Concepts of the 'Thanks Share':

• - Incentivizing the employees who cover for those on leave.
• - Creating a recognition system that expresses heartfelt thanks between employees rather than just a transactional exchange for the tasks being handled.

Expected Outcomes

The program is anticipated to alleviate the burden felt by team members who step in for their colleagues, encouraging a smooth transition back to work for employees on leave. By fostering a culture of mutual support, the initiative promotes a collective effort in sending off the employees on leave while ensuring a seamless reintegration.

Symbolism in the 'Thanks Share' Logo

To accompany this initiative, a logo was carefully designed to symbolize the essence of the 'Thanks Share' system.

Design Intent: Circulation of Gratitude and Support

The logo features hands passing flowers in a circular arrangement. This design reflects the continuous flow of gratitude exchanged between the employee on leave and their supporters, emphasizing that these feelings do not end with just one act but extend throughout the entire team and future interactions. The centermost image is a gerbera flower, which symbolizes gratitude and thanks. The interaction depicted is not merely a handover of duties, but rather a heartfelt exchange where support is passed like a baton.

Expression of International Kogyo's Mission

This logo also resonates with International Kogyo’s mission – to create a world that passes information into the future. It embodies the core values of nurturing relationships and fostering continuity, essentially the DNA of the organization manifested in its internal community support.

Commitment to Promoting DEI

International Kogyo is dedicated to creating an environment where diverse talents can thrive based on various guiding policies:

• - General Business Owner Action Plan under the Act on Promotion of Women’s Participation and Advancement in the Workplace.
• - International Kogyo Group Human Rights Policy.
• - Declaration of Health Management and its promotion system.
• - Multi-Stakeholder Policy.
• - Policy on addressing Customer Harassment.
• - Declaration of Partnership Development.
• - Sustainability Procurement Policy and Code of Conduct.

Through the 'Thanks Share' initiative and wider DEI efforts, International Kogyo illustrates its commitment to enhancing a supportive and inclusive workplace for all employees, fostering a proactive environment where every individual can contribute meaningfully without hesitation.