Promotion of Diversity and Support for Employee Skill Development

Promotion of Diversity and
Support for Employee Skill Development

At the COLOWIDE Group, we recognize that "human resources are one of the most important management assets." Based on this understanding, we promote the recruitment and development of talented individuals and create a fulfilling work environment where diverse employees can thrive. We are committed to establishing a workplace where employees can work with peace of mind at every stage of life and where both men and women can achieve a well-balanced work-life environment.

Human Resource Development Policy

The Group will provide all employees with opportunities for autonomous growth and develop human resources who will grow and develop themselves, so that each and every one of them will feel rewarded for their work and grow, which will lead to the development of the entire Group and realize both “contribution to a sustainable society” and “enhancement of corporate value.”

Promotion of Diversity

Employment of Foreign Nationals We are committed to creating a workplace environment in Japan where foreign employees can work comfortably and make the most of their individual strengths. Currently, our group employs approximately 430 foreign nationals in Japan. In the new graduate recruitment for April 2024, the ratio of foreign employees reached 30%. Additionally, as part of our support for the daily lives of foreign employees, we have established a consultation service called "JUST SOUDAN"^*1. ^*1 JUST SOUDAN: Consultation service for foreign employees. ・Provides support in five languages (Japanese, English, Chinese, Thai, and Nepali). ・Services include assistance with daily life inquiries, work visa renewals, various application procedures ・Provide various support information on the web for foreign employees' retention, including exam information, book recommendations related to individual skill development, and useful tips for living in Japan."

Employment of Individuals with Disabilities Based on the philosophy of “full participation and equality in society for people with disabilities,” the COLOWIDE Group established the special subsidiary Cocot Co., Ltd.^*1 in 2007. At Cocot, employees with disabilities, like other employees, demonstrate their individual abilities and engage in a wide range of tasks daily. At the Yokohama office, they handle tasks such as creating and printing promotional materials used in group stores, and preparing data reports on electricity, gas, and water usage for submission to government agencies. Additionally, at the Cocot offices located within the central kitchens in Kanagawa and Nagahama, they are broadening the scope of activities for people with disabilities, including tasks such as cutting vegetables, cleaning equipment and containers, peeling vegetables like radishes, inspecting products, and weighing ingredients. In doing so, Cocot expands the areas where individuals with disabilities can thrive and fulfills its role as a responsible member of society. In December 2022, Cocot obtained the 'Monis Certification' set by the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare, becoming the first certified company in Yokohama city as a special subsidiary. The 'Monis Certification' is a system that recognizes small and medium-sized enterprises with excellent efforts in promoting and stabilizing employment for people with disabilities. Evaluation criteria include initiatives, results, and information disclosure related to work environment, career development, employee retention, and other factors. At Cocot, we foster job coaches to provide work support, offer flexible employment options according to individual employment motivation, and have implemented a 'Career Path System' that clarifies salary levels based on individual abilities. Through these initiatives, we strive to create a workplace environment that encourages employees to work comfortably and stay motivated. In April 2024, Cocot Co., Ltd. hosted its first Families' Meeting, allowing open and honest exchanges of opinions between their families and the company. ^*1 Cocot Co., Ltd.: For detailed initiatives, please visit https://www.cocot.co.jp/ ^*2 Monis Certification: For more information, please visit https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/monisu.html (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website)

Employment of Elderly Individuals At the COLOWIDE Group, we are proactively working to create employment opportunities for seniors with high skills and a strong desire to work, amidst the decline in the working-age population due to the aging population. We take into account individuals' preferences and physical condition by considering their working hours and days. Additionally, we have introduced a continuation employment system for regular employees until the age of 70, and a retirement system for part-time and temporary employees at the age of 70.

Providing an Encouraging Workplace Environment

Job-based Personnel System The Group has adopted a job-based personnel system, where individuals are matched to jobs rather than the traditional membership-based system that assigns jobs to people. In the job-based personnel system, we assign employees regardless of age, gender, nationality, or other attributes to roles that match their aptitudes, skills, and abilities, preventing mismatches. Job descriptions clearly define the responsibilities, required skills, and compensation, leading to increased motivation and skill development. This system also provides opportunities for diverse talent to thrive within the organization.

Career Challenge System The Group has introduced the career challenge system, a cross-group recruitment initiative that allows employees to apply for positions in different departments or companies within the Group based on their own judgment and suitability. This system works in conjunction with our job-based personnel system. Employees can freely apply for positions in accordance with the recruitment conditions set by various departments within the Group. After undergoing aptitude tests, interviews, and other selection processes, they can be transferred to their new roles. While providing motivated employees with further opportunities for career advancement, we will continue our efforts to ensure the optimal placement of talent, as well as the discovery and retention of skilled individuals.

Support for Employee Skill Development

Qualification Acquisition Support System To support the development of employees' skills and the enhancement of their expertise, we have established a 'Qualification Support System,' which provides incentive bonuses or qualification allowances upon obtaining various certifications. Through the acquisition of specialized qualifications, we strive to ensure that each employee has more opportunities to thrive in the foodservice industry in the future.

Development of Training Program The Group has implemented various education and training programs tailored to each employee's aptitudes and goals, allowing them to continue learning independently. Through the e-learning platform, SmartSkill Campus, all employees can freely access a wide range of courses, from business etiquette to logical thinking, coaching, marketing, and business strategy. For management-level employees, we offer additional access to GLOBIS Unlimited, providing a flexible learning environment anytime, anywhere. Considering our active overseas expansion and the increasing inbound demand, we have also introduced the online English conversation service Native Camp, giving employees the opportunity to practice English regularly. For employees with a strong desire for self-driven growth, we offer hierarchy-specific training that focuses on developing future executives and female managers, actively supporting employees in shaping their careers.