The AOKI Group was founded in 1958, during a period of rapid economic growth in Japan. By making business wear more affordable, so that every office worker in Japan could own a variety of suits, the AOKI Group invented a new type of fashion business in which formality and social convention were replaced by the joy of dressing. The same spirit continues to this day as we look for ways to enrich people’s lives through each new venture that we pursue. Innovation and a willingness to break the mold are part of the AOKI Group’s DNA.

 

We are living in a time of great change, from falling birthrates and aging populations to digital technologies and climate issues. The AOKI Group acknowledges these risks but also sees them as opportunities for further growth together with our customers and other stakeholders. Changing times can be a driving force for innovation that brings more joy and well-being to people’s lives. This, above all else, is the AOKI Group’s reason for being.

 

The AOKI Group is dedicated to making life happier for all. By “innovating new joy” and creating value with our diverse stakeholders, we will continue to enrich lives, grow as a Group, and work to realize the possibility of a sustainable society.

AOKI Group Philosophy and Approach to Sustainability

AOKI Group Philosophy and Approach to Sustainability

Since our founding in 1958, the AOKI Group has worked to resolve management issues by implementing the three elements of our philosophy, namely business integrity, social responsibility and community service.
Looking forward, based on the AOKI Group philosophy, we aim to both resolve social issues and enhance corporate value through business that enriches people’s lives under our Sustainability Policy.

Sustainability Policy

1.

We shall create social value by providing products and services that enhance customer satisfaction and contribute to the resolution of social issues.

2.

We shall respect diversity and provide an environment in which everyone engaged in corporate activities can work with peace of mind.

3.

We shall aim to drive sustainable growth through strong relationships with stakeholders and give back to society.

4.

We shall maintain good relationships with customers and business partners by complying with laws and regulations and conducting fair transactions in accordance with standards.

5.

We shall contribute to the development of local communities through cooperation with local schools and universities and by nurturing the next generation of human resources.

6.

We shall contribute to minimizing environmental burden and preserving the global environment by recycling resources and reducing loss from waste through our products and services.

7.

We shall earn the trust of shareholders and investors through timely and appropriate disclosure of corporate information and dialogue.

Sustainability Management Framework

Materiality and KPIs

The AOKI Group has formulated and is working to achive six material issues (materiality) as well as key performance indicators (KPIs) and numerical targets based on initiatives conducted in Japan and overseas in such areas as the SDGs, expectations from stakeholders and the vision we are aiming for as a Group. Going forward, we will continue to undertake further efforts through our business activities based on these factors to enhance the medium- to long-term value of the AOKI Group and contribute to the sustainable growth of society as a whole.

Business development / Innovation

Provide new value
through products and services

Philosophy and Action Policy

The AOKI Group has always been one step ahead of the times, continuing to take on the challenge of developing new business and driving innovation based on the concept of Enriching people’s lives. We will carry on with the development of new lines of business, products and services with a view to resolving social issues such as the diversifying needs of customers and environmental problems.

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Number of environmentally friendly products developed and sold

Total of 50

FY2023 results and Main Initiatives

・ Group overall : Total of 26

 

  • Fashion Business: Expand development of AOKI ECO FRIENDLY® products
  • Entertainment Business: Develop environmentally friendly and energy-efficient location formats, including kitchen-less locations
  • Anniversaire and Bridal Business: Begin using paper items made with FSC® certified paper

Human resources

Ensure a comfortable and motivating work environment for all

Philosophy and Action Policy

We believe in the importance of building an environment in which employees feel motivated and can truly shine in order to create products and services unique to the AOKI Group. To that end, we will focus on each person’s unique characteristics and support career development based on orientation and ability. At the same time, we will strive to foster an organizational culture that maximizes the diversity of our human resources.

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Women in management positions within the Group

At least 20%

(Section manager equivalent or above)

FY2023 results and Main Initiatives

・Group overall : 4.9%

 

  • Formulate the plan for promoting the advancement of women with a view to 2030
  • Strengthen support for study groups, online communities, etc. for those returning from maternity leave
  • Hold diversity and inclusion study sessions

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Education and training expenses per full-time employee

At least ¥80,000

FY2023 results and Main Initiatives

・Average for full-time employees group-wide :

    ¥63,000 per person

 

  • Have employees attend external seminars
  • Expand and improve grade-based and goal-based training
  • Promote acquisition of official qualifications through financial assistance

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Employee engagement score

At least 65%

* KPI changed in June 2024 with the introduction of a new engagement survey system 

FY2023 results and Main Initiatives

・ Group-wide average : 55%

 

  • Conduct surveys and analysis using the new engagement survey system, and hold briefings
  • Hold training for managerial personnel
  • Hold dialogues between executives and employees

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Result of stress test

High stress rate

Under 6.0%

FY2023 results and Main Initiatives

・Group-wide average : 8.2%

 

  • Report results among each department and conduct individual follow-ups with long-hour workers and high-stress individuals
  • Conduct mental health study sessions
  • Disseminate healthcare information

Environment

Be kind to the environment

Philosophy and Action Policy

While enhancing the quality of customer service and other services to maximize customer satisfaction, the AOKI Group will actively work to reduce CO2 emissions such as by introducing energy-saving initiatives in our stores, which will lead to happier communities and a better earth. We will work together with customers and business partners to reduce environmental impact by such means as recycling clothing that people no longer wear.

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

CO2 emissions (Scope 1+2)

Per store compared with FY2017

50% reduction

(49.5t-CO2)

 

FY2023 results and Main Initiatives

・Per store compared with FY2017 :

    15.7%  reduction(CO2 emissions 83.5t-CO2/store)

 

  • Calculate and disclose Scope 3 emissions
  • Install solar carports
  • Reduce electricity usage by installing energy-saving equipment such as LEDs and air conditioner filters
  • Reduce paper usage by doing more work online

Local communities

Revitalize and develop each region

Philosophy and Action Policy

For the AOKI Group, with a store network spanning Japan, the development and vitality of local communities are critical to sustainable growth. While actively supporting cultural activities and promoting sports, the AOKI Group will also focus on environmental conservation efforts with the aim of becoming a corporate group that grows together with the community.

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Implement community contribution activities

Consistently take action that contributes to the community

Results for Fiscal 2023 and Main Initiatives

・Promote cultural activities such as the AOKI Group Harmony Concert

 

  • Cultural project sponsorships, sports sponsorships, and charity activities
  • Proviide "Children's Emergency Shelter" support, agricultural support, etc.
  • Donate emergency supplies to food banks and suits to orphanages

Human rights

Enable a responsible supply chain

Philosophy and Action Policy

In order to promote the resolution of global social challenges such as climate change and human rights issues, the AOKI Group will focus on sustainability by collaborating with material makers, manufacturing subcontractors and logistics companies in areas ranging from product planning and development to procurement, manufacturing and sales.

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

CSR standards agreements concluded

Over 100 factories

Results for Fiscal 2023 and Main Initiatives

・Contract concluded : 101 factories

 

  • Establish and announce AOKI Group Human Rights Policy
  • Conduct CSR audits through questionnaires for suppliers

Governance

Create a healthier management structure

Philosophy and Action Policy

The AOKI Group positions corporate governance that ensures sound and prompt decision-making, efficiency and transparency as the basis for sustainable growth as a company. To that end, we are working to raise employee awareness of compliance in addition to constantly bolstering our systems. Moving ahead, we will keep striving to improve our decision-making framework and information disclosure through dialogue with shareholders and investors.

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Number of participants in compliance workshops

All Group employees

Results for Fiscal 2023 and Main Initiatives

・Attendance rate : 58.6%

 

  • Hold compliance study sessions for directors and managers
  • Provide e-learning-based compliance training to all employees

KPIs and Numerical Targets (FY2030)

Awareness of hotline

100%

Results for Fiscal 2023 and Main Initiatives

・Recognition : 70.8%

 

  • Develop measures to increase awareness of this through internal newsletters, etc.