- SUSTAINABILITY
- NAKANO Sustainability Action Plan
Under the slogan of
"CHANGE the ALWAYS:Change the Future Now,"
we will work to solve key issues with the aim of becoming a sustainable company that can navigate the future together.
NAKANO Sustainability Action Plan
Environmental load reduction
Containers and packaging initiatives
NAKANO aims to use environmentally friendly materials for the containers and packaging of cosmetics and quasi-drug products.
Use of Certified Environmentally Friendly Paper for Product Packaging and Shipping Cartons
Certified environmentally friendly paper is used for NAKANO product cartons, shipping cartons, and brochures. As of 2024, 99% of product cartons and 95% of shipping cases utilize certified paper.
Use of recycled materials
Product cartons for “caradeco” and “SUSTINO” are made entirely from 100% recycled paper.

Reduction of plastic used in containers and packaging
Efforts are underway to reduce plastic usage in consideration of the global environment.

Efforts to reduce environmental impact on raw resin usage
To minimize environmental impact, containers made from plant-based bioplastics, recycled pellets, and additives that reduce CO2 emissions during incineration are being utilized.

Use of Certified Environmentally Friendly Paper for Product Packaging and Shipping Cartons
Color printing on packaging for the first agent of hair color products has been simplified to a single color, reducing ink usage.

Reduction of the accompanying package insert
Product explanations and usage instructions are printed directly on the inside of cosmetic boxes of some products. We would like to increase the number of products that do not include package inserts.

Change retail sales bags to paper bags
Retail paper shopping bags are made from certified environmentally friendly paper and printed with biomass ink.

Use of environmentally friendly ink for pamphlets
Biomass ink and vegetable ink are used for promotional materials such as pamphlets.

Adoption of Synthetic Paper Labels
Color printing on packaging for the first agent of hair color products has been simplified to a single color, reducing ink usage.Labels made from recycled PET bottle material have achieved approximately a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions. The PET bottle recycling symbol is displayed as a helpful guide for selecting environmentally conscious products.
Production initiatives
NAKANO's production activities have been established to be of benefit to the global environment, and we believe that it is an important responsibility to give due consideration to the impact of production activities on nature. Our efforts toward realizing a sustainable "low-carbon society" and "recycling-oriented society" represents our message to the future global environment.
Achieving a Low Carbon Society
Reducing CO2 emissions is essential for combating global warming and ensuring a sustainable global environment. Efforts so far include upgrading to high-efficiency equipment with minimal energy loss, transitioning to LED lighting, implementing demand management systems, and promoting energy conservation initiatives. Future initiatives include introducing renewable electricity and carbon-neutral city gas to further reduce CO2 emissions. The goal is to achieve carbon neutrality (Scope 1 and 2) at production sites by fiscal year 2030.
[Achievements]
・1% reduction in CO2 emissions intensity compared to 2013 (as of 2024).
・76% increase in total emissions compared to 2013 (as of 2024).
*Total emissions have increased due to quality improvements at the new factory.

Sustainable Society ‒ Water Resource Conservation
Water is an essential resource for both daily life and various industries worldwide. At NAKANO, water is a crucial ingredient in hair care product manufacturing and is widely used for cleaning and cooling in production processes. Efforts have been made to reduce wastewater volume through water recycling and process water reduction measures. Recognizing that water is a limited resource, a long-term goal has been set to achieve a 50% reduction in wastewater volume by fiscal year 2030, with further initiatives planned to strengthen reduction activities.
[Achievements]
・20% reduction in wastewater intensity compared to 2013 (as of 2024).
・42% increase in total wastewater volume compared to 2013 (as of 2024).
*Total wastewater volume has increased due to quality improvements at the new factory.

Sustainable Society ‒ Resource Conservation
Effective use of limited global resources is essential for realizing a sustainable society. Minimizing waste generated from production activities is considered a key priority. At NAKANO, efforts have been made to reduce waste generation through improvements in production efficiency, strict waste separation, and product specification reviews. As a long-term goal, a 50% reduction in final disposal waste is targeted by fiscal year 2030, supporting global environmental conservation and long-term sustainability.
[Achievements]
・37% reduction in waste intensity compared to 2013 (as of 2024).
・11% increase in total waste volume compared to 2013 (as of 2024).
*Total waste volume has increased due to quality improvements at the new factory.

Environmentally Conscious New Factory
At NAKANO’ s Kusatsu production site, efforts have been made to improve energy efficiency by upgrading to high-performance equipment and optimizing operations. In April 2024, a new factory was completed on an adjacent site. In addition to energy efficiency, environmental initiatives include the use of low-impact materials and energy-saving resources. Furthermore, the factory supports local sustainability by incorporating a significant amount of materials sourced from Shiga Prefecture. The facility has been highly rated for its indoor comfort and integration with surrounding landscapes. In May 2024, it became the first in Japan’ s hair cosmetics industry to receive the highest "S Rank" certification under CASBEE (Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency). Furthermore, on April 16, 2025, the factory obtained certification for ISO 22716, the international standard for cosmetics manufacturing and quality control. Moving forward, further initiatives will be pursued to enhance the factory’ s contribution to environmental and social sustainability.
[Achievements]
・First in Japan’ s hair cosmetics industry to receive the highest "S Rank" under CASBEE certification (as of May 31, 2024, based on internal research).
・ISO 22716 certification obtained for cosmetics manufacturing and quality control (April 16, 2025).

Initiatives at Each Business Site
Efforts are underway to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, optimize water resource use, and actively incorporate recycled materials, contributing to lower environmental impact and progress toward a carbon-neutral society.
Achieving a Low-Carbon Society
To address global warming through CO2 emissions reduction, NAKANO has long promoted energy-saving initiatives, including transitioning to LED lighting, adopting hybrid company vehicles, and selecting environmentally responsible transportation methods. Building on these efforts, additional measures have been introduced, such as CO2 emissions visualization through e-dash and, starting in 2024, the procurement of FIT Non-Fossil Certificates to ensure 100% renewable electricity usage at non-production sites (Kyoto Headquarters, Tokyo Branch, and Fukuoka Office). The goal is to achieve carbon neutrality (Scope 1 and 2) across all business sites by fiscal year 2030.
[Achievements]
・33% increase in total emissions compared to 2013 (as of 2024).
*Total emissions have increased due to quality improvements at the new factory.
・FIT Non-Fossil Certificate procurement: 259,680 kWh (from April 2024 onward).

Creation of value for society
Development of social products
- ● We will contribute to the realization of a sustainable society and strengthen our efforts to resolve social issues.
- ● We will continue to provide company-wide education for deeper understanding of social issues.
- ● As part of efforts toward carbon neutrality, calculations of the company's carbon footprint are also being conducted.

Implement support through supplying
beauty products and hygiene products
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● We will work on speedy support for disaster-stricken areas and victims.
- ・Supply dry shampoo
- ・Distribution of masks to medical institutions
- ・Providing alcohol to salons, etc.


Contribution to Local Communities
● Regional Development & Revitalization
Donation to the 2025 Japan World Expo (Osaka-Kansai Expo).

●Achieving an Inclusive Society
NAKANO is committed to supporting the healthy growth of children and contributing to local communities. As part of these efforts, support is provided for the Kyoto Kodomo Takushoku Project.
*Kyoto Kodomo Takushoku Project: Established through a partnership agreement between the Children’ s Food Support Network, Kyoto City, and Adachi Welfare Association, this project aims to identify and assist families in need by delivering food supplies. In addition to direct aid, the initiative connects families with local and governmental support services, such as community dining programs and educational assistance. It is the first project of its kind launched in a government-designated city.

Open Innovation
Collaborations between academia, industry, and government to create new value based on advanced knowledge.
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● ndustry-Academia Collaboration Initiatives
- [Joint Research with Kansai University]
- ・2013: Research paper published in Journal of Natural Medicines.
- ・2015: Patent acquired for melanin production enhancer.
- ・2020: Research paper published in Japan Society of Cosmetic Chemists Journal.
- ・2020: Poster presentation at IFSCC Scientific Conference.
- ・2022: Poster presentation at IFSCC Scientific Conference.
- ・2024: Poster presentation at SCCJ Scientific Conference.
- [Collaborative Product & Service Development with Students of the University of Business and Commerce]
- ・2024: Conducted the Self-Discovery Project in partnership with Sangyo Noritsu University and Nakano Seiyaku Co., Ltd.
- [Industry-Government Collaboration Project with Kyoto City’ s Industrial and Tourism Bureau]
- ・March 2024: Launched an initiative to revitalize Kyoto’ s traditional industries through beauty-related projects.
- Industry Development
Initiatives - To deliver products that are
trusted by our customers - Responsible raw
material procurement
Industry Development Initiatives
Increasing Connections Between
Educational Institutions and the Industry
Active Support for Student Events
- ・Sponsoring products and providing hair and makeup support at school festivals.
Promoting the Appeal of Beauty Through Student-Focused Initiatives
- ・Planning and organizing student tours of the new factory in Kusatsu.
- ・Hosting “Manabi (Learning) Project” classes at Doshisha Junior High School.
- ・Conducting an event for academy students at the soccer school led by Kenko Nakamura, offering a hands-on experience of the joy and wonder of beauty.
Support for International Expansion
Assistance for Hair Stylists Opening Overseas Salons
- ・Providing local market insights and support for domestic salons expanding abroad.
Collaboration with Local Sports Teams
Promoting the Appeal of Beauty Through Sports Event Initiatives
In December 2024, a partnership agreement was signed with the Kyoto Hannaryz, a professional basketball team in the Japan Professional Basketball League (B.LEAGUE), for the 2024-2025 season.
As part of this collaboration, initiatives such as a hairstyling experience event for members of Takakura Elementary School’ s basketball team have been launched. Through its partnership with the Kyoto Hannaryz, NAKANO continues to contribute to both industry growth and regional development from its headquarters in Kyoto—leveraging basketball as a platform for community engagement.


To deliver products that are trusted by our customers
NAKANO quality policy
Since its founding, NAKANO has been pursuing the creation of products that are trusted by customers by thoroughly controlling the quality of raw materials from procurement to manufacturing in order to produce the best quality cosmetics with the message that “We don’t sell frivolous products with the equivalent of water".
Work together with customers
We have hairdressers and customers actually use the samples, and based on the results, we make further improvements to improve the completeness of the product. In addition, even after the product is launched, we have initiatives in place to improve product quality from customer feedback.
Prescription development that complies with NAKANO’s original quality standards
We repeatedly carry out our own performance evaluation tests, stability tests, safety tests, and antiseptic/preservation tests that we have developed over many years of experience to deliver products that our customers trust.

Deliver accurate information and build relationships with customers
We strive to build a relationship of trust with our customers by delivering accurate information, which includes how to use our products.In addition, we have established an in-company system that can respond quickly to complaints and inquiries from customers.
Compliance with laws and regulations
We comply with the laws and regulations of product manufacturing and services, and deliver products that are trusted by our customers.

Follow and maintain a quality assurance system in manufacturing
With a total quality assurance system from receiving raw materials to blending, filling, packaging, and shipping, we provide stable products that are trusted by our customers.

Adoption of universal design
We aim to create an environment, products, and services that can be used by as many people as possible regardless of differences in culture, language, nationality, age, gender, and ability.

Responsible raw material procurement
Procurement activities in collaboration
with suppliers
Thinking long-term, in order to dependably deliver safe, secure and reliable products to our customers, we believe that it is essential to form a relationship of trust with suppliers. NAKANO promotes sustainable procurement of raw materials by coordinating with suppliers who share their values as "partner companies" based on the action guideline of "Let's think customer-centered at all times".
Basic Procurement Policy
We are promoting procurement activities based on the following basic policy.
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1. Prosperous coexistence
By building long-term relationships of trust with our suppliers, we aim for coexistence and co-prosperity, as well as evolution and development.
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2. Fair・Impartial
We provide a wide range of new entry opportunities to our suppliers, and take into consideration quality / cost / delivery time, stable supply, technical capabilities, management stability, etc., and always carry out fair and impartial procurement activities.
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3. Compliance with laws and social norms
We will comply with all relevant laws and regulations, and act with high ethical standards within standard social conventions.
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4. Information security maintenance
We will ensure that confidential information and customer information obtained in procurement activities are managed responsibly.
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5. Prohibition of receiving private gain
We prohibit procurement personnel from receiving inappropriate personal benefits (including entertainment and gifts) from suppliers.
We are implementing the following initiatives to promote procurement that takes the international community and the global environment into consideration so that we can permanently provide products that our customers can use with peace of mind.
Implement information exchange meetings
Aiming for mutual development, we hold regular interviews (information exchange meetings) with suppliers of raw materials, container packaging materials, and production contractors. By exchanging information on supply such as quality and delivery date, as well as industry information corresponding to environmental issues and social conditions, we can stabilize quality and jointly develop sustainable raw materials in line with the times.

Procurement staff training
Procurement staff understand basic procurement policy through in-house training, and comply with laws and guidelines regarding commercial transactions by taking training in Subcontracting Law. We also carry out responsible procurement activities from a global perspective, aiming for a sustainable society.
* Subcontracting Law: Law for fair transactions and protection of business interests
Establish/maintain contracts with suppliers
For potential new business, we will request an investigative report by an external research company and confirm that it conforms to our basic procurement policy before going ahead with the deal.
Advancing Digital Transformation (DX)
Promoting DX in the Beauty Industry
Japan's digitalization has lagged behind other countries, prompting the government to establish the Digital Agency to accelerate DX across industries. The beauty industry is no exception—digital transformation can revolutionize hairstylists' work styles, optimize supply chains, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer experiences in ways previously unattainable. To build a more sustainable industry, digitalization is essential
Build a new support system utilizing digital technology
Efforts are being made to expand LIVE and on-demand seminars for both domestic and international audiences, providing an educational support system that is accessible anytime, anywhere. To improve communication quality with salons, LINE, a digital communication tool, is utilized to deliver the latest industry updates, helpful insights, and product information promptly. LINE Official Account Subscribers: 13,000 (as of 2024).

Increase business efficiency through digitalization
We will digitize the exchange of all business documents such as invoices, delivery notes, and contracts, and build a win-win relationship that will lead to operational efficiency for our business partners.

Create a new type of value for customers using digital technology
Working alongside salons, efforts are underway to create new customer experiences through e-commerce and other innovations, driving digital transformation (DX) in the beauty industry. To enhance convenience for customers who receive consultations at salons, the official online store, NAKANO Online Store, has been introduced.

Improvement of employee IT literacy
Internal training programs focused on IT literacy and digital marketing are being conducted to cultivate digital talent and build an organization capable of providing digital solutions to salons.
Implementation of "DX Talent Development Training" To realize one of the visions outlined in the 10-year future map (*), which is to "contribute to the advancement of the beauty industry through DX (Digital Transformation)," DX talent development training has been launched.
・Training individuals to understand data and digital technologies and develop DX business strategies (2024).
(*) NAKANO's 10-year future map, starting from 2024.
Promoting Workplace Fulfillment
Creating a company where work is meaningful and rewarding
Career development support
Providing education and training tailored to roles, age groups, and career progression,with the employee journey in mind
・Implementation of training programs for managers and young employees
・Introduction of an e-learning system
・Conducting life planning seminars suited to different generations
Promoting Work-Life Balance
Establishing systems that enable high productivity and flexible work arrangements tailored to different life stages.
・Introduction of a flextime system
・Implementation of an annual paid leave system allowing leave to be taken in hourly increments
・Introduction of shortened working hours for childcare and caregiving
・Adoption of a seven-hour workday (9:00‒17:00 )
・Continuation of optional remote work
・Development of a work-friendly environment for senior employees

Advancing Diversity
Creating an environment that recognizes various differences and attributes, allowing individuals to maximize their strengths.
Enhancing Communication
Utilizing the "Waku-Doki" Space A space has been established within the internal network, allowing employees to freely share moments of excitement and inspiration experienced through work, without restrictions on subject matter. By enabling employees to exchange success stories, new initiatives, and best practices across different business locations and departments, the platform fosters idea generation and strengthens communication.
"Good Job" Initiative
Through the internal network system, efforts are made to recognize and highlight excellent work performed by employees, encouraging peer appreciation and acknowledgment. By enhancing both the quantity and quality of communication, the initiative boosts motivation and strengthens a culture of recognition, fostering an environment where individuals uplift one another. In 2024, 580 instances of recognition were recorded.
Creating Opportunities for Bottom-Up Proposals
Implementation of the "Policy Formulation Project"
Objective: To develop a 10-year future vision through full employee participation and establish and execute plans to bring that vision to reality.
Activity Period: From April 2022
Activities: Formulation, announcement, and progress monitoring of mid-term management policies
Results: Improved evaluations from stakeholders, including customers, society, and employees
Implementation of "Social Good Guidelines and Bottom-Up Initiatives" As a commitment to generating diverse social good for future generations, "Social Good Guidelines" have been established, with each department carrying out initiatives through bottom-up activities.
Definition of Social Good Guidelines:
➀ Good for Earth ‒ Environmental initiatives
➁ Good for Health ‒ Health-related initiatives
➂ Good for Diversity ‒ Diversity initiatives
Activity Period: From May 2024
Activities: Highlighting internal initiatives that create a positive social impact and sharing them internally and externally
Results: Improved evaluations from stakeholders, including customers, society, and employees
Strengthening Health Management
(Enhancing employee well-being to boost vitality and productivity)
Initiatives for Ongoing Compliance with "Certified Health & Productivity Management Organization" Standards(Recognized in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025, with efforts continuing to maintain certification)
Addressing Employee Health Issues and Advancing Countermeasures
Increasing opportunities for health checkups and promoting greater awareness of health-related matters.

Promote efforts to improve the physical and mental health of employees
・Continuation of non-smoking efforts
1992 Started smoking cessation activities to improve employee health
2004 Setting of "non-smoking allowance"
2007 "Achieved 100% non-smoking rate for all employees“ "Implementation of non-smoking petition drive"
2009 Received "Kyoto Prefecture Workplace Health Promotion Award"
Ongoing Achievement of 100% Non-Smoking Rate Among Employees (2024)
・Use of balance balls in the office
As part of our health promotion activities, we have introduced "balance balls" as a substitute for chairs used at each business site. We are encouraging improvement in muscle strength of the back and stomach, with additional training benefits in balance.
・Creating Opportunities for Physical Activity
Hosting exercise classes
Establishing "Everyday No Elevator Day"
・Implementation of "Health Challenge Activities"
・Conducting health quizzes
・Providing first-aid and CPR training
・Promoting awareness of paid leave utilization

Strengthening of governance
Aim for flexible management in response
to changes in circumstance to achieve
sustainable growth and increase corporate value
Development of compliance system
・Prompt response to changes in laws and regulations
・In-house training on laws and regulations

Strengthening information security management
・Countermeasures for external threats
・Construction of an optimal data management environment
・Conducting programs to enhance understanding of information security principles.

