Material Group Launches Its First Cross-Company PR Workshop 'Material College'

Material Group Inc., headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, with CEO Sō Aozaki at the helm, has announced the inaugural session of its cross-company PR workshop termed 'Material College', set to take place on May 29, 2026. With the aim of reinforcing collaboration across its eight distinct member companies, this initiative is designed to enhance comprehensive consulting competencies, proposal capabilities, and problem-solving skills. The workshop will be overseen by Material's director, Reona Onoue, who is also a part-time lecturer at Waseda University and Daito Bunka University, bringing her extensive expertise to this endeavor.

Background and Purpose

As Material Group has grown to encompass eight member companies, each equipped with unique strengths in various industries, the decision to establish 'Material College' was initiated to further share knowledge and insights among the companies. By fostering collaboration and enhancing the quality of proposals, the workshop aims not only to drive growth but also to develop the next generation of leaders within the organization.

Overview and Details

The 'Material College' will primarily consist of practical workshops, featuring lectures by Onoue and introductions to each of the member companies. Teams composed of members from different companies will engage in workshops to cultivate PR thinking, deepen mutual understanding between companies, and enhance proposal skills.

Event Details

- Date: May 29, 2026 (Friday)
- Workshop Time: 17:00-19:00
- Networking Session: 19:00-20:00
- Location: Material Group Headquarters, Ark Mori Building, 35th Floor, 1-12-32 Akasaka, Minato, Tokyo

Key Features

1. Systematic and Academic Acquisition of PR Thinking
Participants will gain systematic insights into PR thinking, thanks to the lecture led by Onoue, who is experienced in teaching at universities and external seminars. This knowledge is designed to be directly applicable in real-world scenarios.

2. Learning from Diverse Perspectives within the Group
Members from distinguished companies across varying business fields will form mixed teams to refine multifaceted thinking methods and practical proposal strategies.

3. Strengthening Cross-Company Relationships
Through the invaluable opportunities for networking essential for PR, participants will work on enhancing collaboration among the companies.

Future Developments

The Material Group aims to evolve 'Material College' into an ongoing initiative, focusing on enhancing the proposal capabilities of the entire group and nurturing future leaders. There are plans to actively organize cross-company events that include partner and affiliated companies to promote overall organizational growth and collaboration.

Reona Onoue’s Profile

After graduating from university, Reona Onoue began her career as a journalist with NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation), covering various fields including crime, politics, and health issues. Notably, she reported on the alarming shortage of obstetricians on Oki Islands, igniting a national discussion involving the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and the Japan Medical Association. Subsequently, as an executive officer at Inoue Public Relations, she handled clients across a diverse range of sectors including agriculture, transportation, financial services, and education. Since joining Material Group, she has held a director position, utilizing her experience as a journalist and secretary to legislators to offer consulting in PR strategy, crisis management, media training, and more.

About Material Group

Material Group specializes in providing comprehensive communication support for various business challenges while strengthening client relationships with society. Under the vision 'Switch to Red,' which emphasizes igniting passion in individuality and transforming values and conventions, the mission stands to maximize the potential of all unique identities. The group comprises companies that collaborate in various communication services, ensuring effective relationships between brands and stakeholders.