#Uni #Mitsubishi Pencil #Hi-Uni

Revamping the Icons: Uni and Hi-Uni Pencils

Mitsubishi Pencil Co., based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, is set to refresh the packaging of its flagship pencil brands, Uni and Hi-Uni. Starting from September 16, 2026, these classic pencils will be released in their updated forms in the most popular grades: HB, B, and 2B.

Uni pencils made their debut in 1958, followed by Hi-Uni in 1966. These products have become synonymous with Mitsubishi’s commitment to excellence, supporting learning, creativity, and professional work throughout the years. As the company approaches its 140th anniversary in 2026, this packaging refresh will aim to solidify the enduring value of these iconic brands. The new design not only highlights their long-standing commitment to quality but also emphasizes environmental consciousness and modern values.

The Background of Revitalization

When the Uni was first launched in 1958, it represented a pinnacle of pencil technology and was marketed in a packaging that coincided with its high quality. At that time, it featured an innovative plastic case that set the standard for premium packaging. This initial design philosophy was also carried over to the Hi-Uni model, which followed in 1966, both of which have served as lasting symbols of the Uni brand.

However, the world of writing instruments has experienced significant changes since then. While pencils were once essential tools for education and work, the market now offers a plethora of alternatives such as mechanical pencils, ballpoint pens, and digital devices. In today’s environment, pencils are increasingly chosen by those who appreciate their unique tactile warmth, rich line quality, and the enjoyment that comes from sharpening them. Therefore, this revamp aims to reflect contemporary packaging standards while honoring the “best package of its time” ethos established at the launch.

Product Features

1. A New Eco-Friendly Package

The most notable change is the shift from plastic casings to a package primarily made of paper materials. The new design features a micro-flute box, known for its durability, paired with a pulped tray made from upcycled Empty Fruit Bunch (EFB) from palm oil production. This switch aligns with the growing need to utilize sustainable materials as the global demand for palm oil increases. The sturdy, molded pulp provides excellent cushioning, making it ideal for packaging various products while enhancing the message of environmental responsibility.

2. User-Centric Design

The newly designed pulp tray not only protects the pencils but allows them to be displayed conveniently on desks. The shape promotes easy access and storage, enhancing the overall user experience.

3. A Forward-Looking Design for the Uni Brand

The fresh packaging design respects the long tradition of quality that Uni and Hi-Uni represent while also conveying a sleek and modern aesthetic. This revamp is intended to embody the company’s heritage in pencil manufacturing while committing to nurturing creativity and self-expression in the future.

Product Overview

Uni Pencils

• - Grade Options: HB, B, 2B
• - Suggested Retail Price: 1,320 yen (excluding tax: 1,200 yen)

Hi-Uni Pencils

• - Grade Options: HB, B, 2B
• - Suggested Retail Price: 1,980 yen (excluding tax: 1,800 yen)

Note: The rollout of the rebrand will begin with grades HB, B, and 2B, with plans to introduce additional grades by 2027.

A Legacy of Innovation

The Uni brand, revealed to the public in 1958, was conceived with a desire to produce the highest-quality pencil on a global scale, reflected in its name, derived from the word