Society
R&D
In the area of Health & Beauty, Shinnihonseiyaku is engaged in R&D to realize new and smart lifestyles for customers.
R&D policy
Shinnihonseiyaku has established an R&D policy of “smart life science” in order to deliver new value to customers goes beyond the boundaries of conventional wisdom.
Strengths of R&D
Our R&D focuses on the development of new materials and biological barrier research. Our strength in developing new materials is the development of highly functional and unique new materials, focusing on the three areas collagen, medicinal plants, and advanced materials. We use the new raw materials developed in our merchandise in order to develop merchandise that satisfy our customers. We are also conducting joint research with universities and other organizations on the function of biological barriers. It has been proven that the deterioration of the biological barrier function accelerates the aging of the skin and body, and Shinnihonseiyaku believes that it is important to enhance the biological barrier function and is working on R&D in this area. We are actively applying for patents for the results of our R&D activities.
Efforts to develop new materials
Development of Lithospermum erythrorhizon fermented collagen
Through joint research* with Professor Masanori Sugiyama of the Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences (Pharmaceutical Sciences), Hiroshima University, we have developed "Lithospermum erythrorhizon fermented collagen," the world's first proprietary material in which collagen is fermented with lactic acid bacteria discovered from the flowers of the medicinal plant Lithospermum erythrorhizon. Lithospermum erythrorhizon fermented collagen has been confirmed to have a higher amount of amino acids than unfermented collagen and to be more effective in producing hyaluronic acid. It is expected to have cosmetic effects such as moisturizing and improving elasticity of the skin, and is planned to be used in cosmetics in the future.
*Collected lactic acid bacteria from various medicinal plants through joint research and determined scientific names
List of patents
Cosmetic raw material combining amino acid unique to collagen and medicinal plants
(Cosmetics material)(No. 7313755)
Cosmetics raw materials that have been confirmed to improve the skin barrier function and moisturizing function by combining amino acids unique to collagen and ingredients extracted from the medicinal plants Glycyrrhiza and Lithospermum erythrorhizon.
Technology for applying guanine crystals to cosmetics
(Cosmetic composition, whitening gel cosmetic, cream cosmetic for eye area and cream cosmetic for foundation)(No. 7039086)
Inspired by the habit of fish to manipulate light and assimilate it into the surrounding environment, development of a new material that covers dark spots and dullness and improves skin tone, and a method for manufacturing cosmetic compositions.
Placenta collagen
(Method for producing cosmetic composition) (No. 6944606)
A material and method for manufacturing cosmetic compositions that combine the functions of the beauty ingredient placenta extract and collagen, focusing on the fact that collagen is also abundantly contained in the placenta.
VC collagen
(Method of manufacturing cosmetics)(No. 6727468)
A method for manufacturing cosmetics that combine the action of collagen for producing beautiful skin and vitamin C, which is necessary for collagen production, and that excel in promoting collagen production by approximately five times compared to common collagen raw materials.
Liposomal Shikon extract
(Method of manufacturing cosmetics raw materials)(No. 6242422)
A production method in which Shikon extract is made into liposomes with a lamellar structure consisting of alternating layers of water and oil, which allows for greater penetration into the skin.
Method of cultivating Lithospermum erythrorhizon
(Method of cultivating Lithospermum erythrorhizon)(No. 5885320)
A cultivation method to improve the survival rate of rare and valuable Lithospermum erythrorhizon by mixing arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi spores (symbiotic fungi) into the medium used for growing Lithospermum erythrorhizon seedlings, and to increase the content of active ingredients.
Variety registration
Shinnihonseiyaku GG01
(Registration number: 29026)
Registered as the first new variety of Glycyrrhiza glabra in Japan. Compared to the growing period of the conventional Glycyrrhiza glabra, the glycyrrhizic acid content, a key component, was increased to 2.0%, the standard value in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia, within 18 months after planting.
Supply Chain Management
Collaboration with suppliers is essential to the continuation of Shinnihonseiyaku's business and the resolution of social issues. We are committed to sustainable procurement activities, including compliance with laws and social norms, human rights, occupational health and safety, and environmental considerations.
Procurement Policy
To realize sustainable procurement, Shinnihonseiyaku formulated its Procurement Policy in June 2023. Going forward, we will implement responsible supply chain management in cooperation with our suppliers.
Under our Purpose, “Beyond innovation, for a beautiful smile!,” Shinnihonseiyaku will consider the social responsibility to be fulfilled throughout the entire supply chain, including suppliers involved in our merchandise and services, and will conduct sustainable procurement.
- Adherence to compliance and fair trade
We will always conduct free competition and fair, impartial and honest transactions in compliance with laws and regulations, international norms, and social norms. - Human rights and working conditions
We respect the human rights and diversity of our employees and provide a comfortable and pleasant working environment. - Quality, safety, and customer satisfaction
We continuously provide products and services with quality and safety that meet laws and regulations and requirements, and earn customer satisfaction and trust. - Environmental considerations
We will engage in environmentally friendly business activities and reduction of environmental burdens, envisioning the entire process from merchandise planning to disposal after use. - Relationship with society
Recognizing that we are members of society, we conduct activities that contribute to the development of local communities with gratitude. We will also disclose information appropriately as a company open to society.
Supply chain management targets
| Formulating the Procurement Policy that considers sustainability | Completed by FY2023 |
|---|---|
| Conduct awareness-raising activities for suppliers based on the Procurement Policy | FY2024 |
Plans for future initiatives
Based on our Procurement Policy, we plan to conduct educational activities for our suppliers and to conduct document inspections and feedback in the form of questionnaires. We aim for sustainable procurement based on quality audits, which we have already implemented in quality management.
TOPICS
Procurement Policy Formulation ProjectTo formulate the Procurement Policy, the managers of divisions deeply involved in the procurement of products, such as the Quality Assurance, Logistics, Product Development, and Mail Order divisions, gathered together.
In formulating the Procurement Policy, we consulted external guidelines and exchanged opinions with Directors of the Board six times in total, and after obtaining approval from the Sustainability Committee, we formulated the Procurement Policy.
Going forward, we will continue to strengthen cooperation with our suppliers and promote the construction of sustainable supply chains.
Initiatives for Safe and Secure Quality
Formulation of customer satisfaction indicators
We strive for the highest level of customer satisfaction in order to realize “a beautiful smile” in our Purpose. We have formulated "customer satisfaction indicators" for all employees to engage with customer satisfaction on a daily basis. Our company's concept of customer satisfaction consists of the following six indicators, which we believe will lead to the improvement of customer satisfaction as considered by Shinnihonseiyaku.
In the future, targets will be set for each indicator, and related departments will work to achieve the targets.
We think about each indicator as follows.
| Evaluation item | Example targets |
|---|---|
| (i) Activities for safety and security | Number of quality audits conducted and employee safety and security training attendance rates |
| (ii) Safety and security results |
Number of violations of laws and regulations concerning merchandise and services |
| (iii) Activities to improve customer satisfaction |
Percentage of customer feedback reflected in merchandise and services |
| (iv) Customer satisfaction | Satisfaction based on customer satisfaction surveys |
| (v) Activities to pursue our company character (i.e., our Purpose) | Number of customer service programs conducted |
| (vi) Customer satisfaction typical of our company (i.e., our Purpose) | Happiness based on customer satisfaction surveys |
TOPICS
Customer Satisfaction Indicator Formulation ProjectThe managers of Product Development, Call Center, Quality Assurance, Sales Promotion Planning, and other divisions gathered to formulate customer satisfaction indicators. Our products must be safe and secure for customers, and based on the established purpose, we discussed “what constitutes customer satisfaction unique to our company” six times in total. Targets set for each indicator are to be achieved by the division in charge, and the entire company aims to improve customer satisfaction along with the realization of the Purpose.
Quality initiatives
We have established a quality control system to ensure that customers can use our merchandise with confidence, and are taking measures based on our Quality Policy.
We are particularly committed to safety and security, and the Quality Assurance Section assesses whether merchandise manufactured by OEM partners meet our quality standards by obtaining samples before shipment and before mass production. We check the quality according to the standard determined after the stability test. However, if there is a fluctuation in the value even if it is within the standard, we check directly with the OEM partner to maintain quality stability. In addition, we have established in-house quality manuals, quality assurance regulations, and procedure manuals based on the Act on Securing Quality, Efficacy and Safety of Products Including Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices, etc., to ensure thorough quality control and quality assurance.
Quality audits in FY2023
| Quality audit results | 100％ |
|---|
Human Resources
Human Resources Development Policy
We believe that in order to realize “Beyond innovation, for a beautiful smile!,” as stated in our Purpose, it is essential for all employees to have dreams and aspirations, and to grow through daily challenges.
- We will realize our Mission and management policy, as well as develop the next generation of leaders who will solve social issues.
- We will nurture human resources who continue to challenge themselves, without losing sight of their own value, even in a complex and ever-changing environment.
- In order to continue to create new value in times of high uncertainty, we will nurture diverse human resources by respecting individuality such as age, gender, nationality, expertise, and experience.
- We will nurture human resources who do not take everything for granted and strive to realize their dreams and aspirations with gratitude.
Human resources development and training system
Shinnihonseiyaku has established various training programs to improve the individual knowledge and skills of employees and to support their challenges and growth. In addition to training by job level according to the employee's role and by department according to the expertise of the department, we also provide training that employees can participate in on their own initiative.
Main training by rank and division
- Onboarding training
- Specialized training
- Logical thinking training
- Facilitation training
- Management training
- Compliance training
| FY | FY2023 |
|---|---|
| Total annual education and training hours | 1,053 hours |
| Annual education and training costs per capita | 29,513 yen |
Support for voluntary learning by employees
We have established a self-development allowance system to support the attitude and actions of each employee to study and improve their knowledge and skills for their own personal growth. With an annual limit of 50,000 yen, the company pays the expenses required for learning for the purpose of self-development. In addition, as a place to support employees' independent learning, as well as company-led training by rank and department, employees serve as instructors for courses to acquire qualifications and improve knowledge and skills. Courses offered with the approval of the Personnel Section are open to all participants regardless of their department or employment status.
*A lottery system may be applied depending on capacity
Creating an environment that fosters a sense of fulfillment
Shinnihonseiyaku aims to achieve the "rewarding culture" set forth in its Internal Environment Development Policy. We respect the autonomy and challenging spirit of our employees and work to create an environment where they can feel fulfilled.
Award system
In addition to the personnel evaluation system, various award systems are established.
Innovation Award
A system to recognize employees who have created innovative technologies that are different from the conventional or systems that are recognized as meaningful to the company.
*Employees put themselves forward
MVP Award
A system to award employees who are considered to have contributed the most to the company's performance from among those who have received a certain level of recognition in personnel evaluations
Employee awareness survey
In order to create an environment where employees can work in a lively and positive manner, we conduct an annual employee awareness survey of all employees, regardless of their employment status. Based on the survey results, we are working to identify and improve issues in the organizational culture.
Sharing career design
At Shinnihonseiyaku, once a year, employees submit a career design sheet to inform the company of their views on career development as an opportunity to think about their own careers. The contents of the declaration are used for personnel rotation and human resources development measures to support the career development of employees.
Health management
Under the "Shinnihonseiyaku Health & Wellbeing Initiative," Shinnihonseiyaku believes that a healthy lifestyle for employees is an essential element of sustainable corporate management, and is committed to providing support to employees both mentally and physically.
Shinnihonseiyaku Health & Wellbeing Initiative
Shinnihonseiyaku endorsed the founding objectives of the Kyushu-Fukuoka Health Management Promotion Council*, which was launched in February 2018, and participated as one of the initiating organizations. Taking this opportunity, we declared that we realize health management.
*Established by the Japan Society of Preventive Medicine as a company promoting health management in Kyushu
- We will provide a work environment where employees can work comfortably, vigorously, and happily.
- We will realize a system that enables employees to work with peace of mind and well-being.
- We will create a corporate culture where employees can try new things and feel a sense of fulfilment.
Initiatives for health management
Employee cafeteria that pays attention to employee health
The company cafeteria at the Head Office offers a menu that takes into consideration the health of employees, including a daily set meal supervised by a registered dietitian based on sports nutrition and smoothies made with the company's own merchandise, “Asaichi Sukkiri! Aojiru Salad Plus.” The company cafeteria is located on the top floor with a great view, and serves as a place for employees to relax.
Counseling for mind and body
In order to help employees lead a comfortable corporate life, we have established a contact point where they can consult directly with a professional counselor outside the company. Employees can discuss personal concerns as well as their concerns about interpersonal relationships and work.
Human Rights and Diversity
Respect for human rights and diversity
In its Internal Environment Development Policy, Shinnihonseiyaku is committed to creating a workplace environment where all human resources can play an active role and a culture that respects human rights and diversity. In addition, the Procurement Policy clearly states respect for the human rights and diversity of employees and aims to create a comfortable working environment. Based on these policies, we will create an environment in which individual employees can demonstrate their individuality and abilities, and conduct business activities that respect human rights and diversity throughout the supply chain.
Promotion of women’s participation and advancement
Our main merchandise, the PERFECT ONE All-in-One Gel series, was developed so that women who are busy with their careers, housework, childcare, and other daily activities due to their participation in society can experience the benefits of skincare without the time and effort. In addition, at our company, where approximately 80% of our employees are women, we have identified the promotion of women's participation as a materiality and aim to create a working environment and society where women can play an active role.
Formulation of action plans based on the Act on the Promotion of Women's Active Engagement in Professional Life and Act on Advancement of Measures to Support Raising Next-Generation Children
In order to realize a workplace environment in which women and other diverse human resources can play an active role, Shinnihonseiyaku has formulated an action plan* that includes support for women's careers and consideration of initiatives to encourage participation in childcare regardless of gender. We are promoting initiatives in line with this action plan.
*The action plan is published on the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's “Information site to support efforts to balance work and family life: Support for Balancing Work and Family Life.”
System for balancing childcare and nursing care with work
| Childcare leave at birth | Leave that can be taken for up to 28 days within 8 weeks after the birth of the child to be cared for |
|---|---|
| Childcare leave | Leave that can be taken when taking care of a child up to the age of 2 |
| Changes in working hours due to childcare | A system under which working hours can be reduced by up to two hours a day when raising a child until the end of the third grade year of elementary school |
| Nursing care leave | Leave that can be taken when caring for a family member in need of nursing care |
| Changes in working hours due to nursing care | A system that allows employees to change their working hours when caring for a family member in need of nursing care |
| Nursing leave |
Leave to take care of children up to the end of the third grade year of elementary school (5 days per fiscal year; 10 days per fiscal year for two or more children) |
| Care leave | Leave to care for a family member in need of nursing care (5 days per fiscal year; 10 days per fiscal year for two or more family members) |
*There are requirements for using some systems.
Towards a workplace where all can play an active role
Shinnihonseiyaku employs people with intellectual disabilities at the Logistics Center responsible for shipping merchandise. They are in charge of sorting and packaging merchandise to be shipped to customers. Instead of providing temporary work, we aim to create a safe working environment by examining within the company the work that is essential to deliver merchandise to our customers.
Trends in employment of persons with disabilities
| FY | FY2021 | FY2022 | FY2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment rate for persons with disabilities | 3.2% | 3.6% | 4.0% |
CSR
Shinnihonseiyaku is committed to CSR activities that bring happiness to local communities.
Employees actively participate in the activities, fostering a sense of participation in society by each and every employee.
Campaign to eradicate drunk driving
Shinnihonseiyaku has been working to eradicate drunk driving since 2008 in Fukuoka Prefecture, where its Head Office is located. Since the Fukuoka Uminonakamichi Ohashi Bridge drunk driving incident occurred, the entire prefecture has been working to eradicate drunk driving, but we have yet to eradicate it. In FY2023, we held a lecture by Miyako Yamamoto, the representative of Hato Space, an NPO that works to eliminate drunk driving, in cooperation with Hakata High School, and released balloons with the wish of eradicating driving under the influence. At the same time, we conducted an awareness-raising campaign for employees with the aim of eradicating drunk driving.
Collaborative project with Fukuoka City and Avispa Fukuoka, "Fukuoka Clean Campaign" and others
In recent years, as climate change and global warming have become social issues and the importance of forests has increased, we wanted to expand activities for the local community, so we organized “Making our home beautiful! Fukuoka Clean Campaign” (clean-up) event in collaboration with Avispa Fukuoka, who are based in Fukuoka and for which we are the uniform sponsor (chest), and “FUKUOKA TAKE ACTION!,” a J League social collaboration project initiative.
Pink Ribbon Campaign at Avispa Fukuoka home match
About 80% of Shinnihonseiyaku’s employees are women. For this reason, all female employees, regardless of age, can receive medical examinations for the female-specific cancers of breast cancer and cervical cancer in order to create a safe working environment for women. On the other hand, in order to improve the low breast cancer screening rate in Fukuoka Prefecture, we have been conducting the Pink Ribbon Campaign at our sponsored Avispa Fukuoka matches since 2021. In cooperation with NPO Happy Mamma, we contribute to raising awareness of medical examinations by distributing educational leaflets and distributing original goods.
Breast cancer screening targets
| In-house breast cancer screening rates | 100% annually |
|---|---|
| Breast cancer screening rates in Fukuoka Prefecture |
55% or more by 2026* |
*Scheduled to refer to the "National Survey of Living Standards" published by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2026
Main CSR activities
- Avispa Fukuoka/Premium Uniform Partner
- Rizing Zephyr Fukuoka/Official Partner, Wheelchair Team Sponsorship
- Japan Heart/Sponsorship of Smile Smile PROJECT
- NPO Hato Space/Sponsorship
- Oita International Wheelchair Marathon/Sponsorship
- Fukuoka Marathon/Sponsorship
- C’s Athlete/Sponsorship
- Kyushu Pro-Wrestling/Kyushu Genkitai Member (Platinum)