Magazine​

From improving the office environment to small improvements to break times—at the Hofu factory, we are constantly turning ideas that come from the field into reality, with "comfort for our team members" as our key theme.

This time, we interviewed two key people at the Hofu Plant to learn the secrets behind their bottom-up approach to creating a positive work environment, using examples of initiatives implemented through on-site leadership!

Shinya Kawamura (pictured right / Manufacturing Department)

While handling his main job of technical planning, he also serves as the vice-chairman of the labor union. He's a reliable idea man who is quick to pick up on problems on-site and ideas like "it would be great if we had this," and works in multiple roles!

Emi Yamane (pictured left / Quality Assurance and Management Department)

This person is the linchpin of the Hofu factory, handling a wide range of tasks including general affairs, accounting, and purchasing. They are the driving force behind the implementation of new policies, efficiently supporting the establishment of procedures and operational flows behind the scenes!

| A place where "casual conversations" can happen over a cold drink.

— I hear that there are many initiatives at the Hofu factory that were born from feedback from the factory floor.

Kawamura: One of the most notable examples is the new water supply system (vending machine) that we introduced this year. At the Hofu factory, we have a system in place every summer to distribute drinks to employees as a measure against heatstroke. However, in the past, we would buy drinks, put them in a refrigerator, and distribute them, which made ordering and managing them quite time-consuming.

Yamane: Also, everyone was opting for sports drinks. But some members had health issues or pre-existing conditions that made drinking sports drinks every day difficult.

Kawamura: "So, I suggested, 'How about making it a vending machine type where you can choose your favorite drink whenever you want?'"

Yamane: After installation, it was well-received, with people saying, "It's so helpful to be able to get a cold drink right away!" It has become a communication spot where people gather in front of the vending machine and conversations naturally arise, like, "What did you choose today?"

The ease of purchasing drinks simply by holding up your card is another attractive feature.

It has become a break spot where smiles and casual conversations naturally occur, transcending departmental boundaries.

| Instantly realize your "wouldn't it be helpful to have this" needs! From watering hoses to herb cultivation.

— I've heard that, in addition to vending machines, on-site ingenuity is incorporated into daily operations.

Kawamura: Yes. To make the work environment as comfortable as possible, we've installed watering hoses on the premises and introduced a cashless snack corner where people can grab a quick bite. We're putting ideas into practice, regardless of the scale.

The watering hoses were introduced as a measure against heatstroke. Apparently, this was also an idea from the on-site team members.

Yamane: What impressed me the most was the "insect-repellent herbs" next to the outdoor rest area. Even though Kawamura himself rarely uses the area, he planted herbs like lemongrass because he thought it would be a shame for people to get bitten by insects and stressed out while taking a break (laughs).

Kawamura: Now, members who stop by the rest area water the plants every day, and I feel that this has unexpectedly become a great opportunity to strengthen our bonds as a team.

Insect-repellent herbs are placed next to the rest area. This is a thoughtful touch unique to the Hofu factory.

Next up: Utilizing empty spaces! The secret to a culture where ideas easily become reality.

— What is the reason behind how smoothly the "we want to try this" ideas from those on the ground are being realized?

Yamane: The Hofu factory is a compact base with about 70 to 90 people in total. That's why there are no departmental barriers, and we're all very close to each other. If you think, "This could be improved," or "This sounds interesting!", there's a culture where you can immediately consult with those around you and take action.

Kawamura: Actually, we're currently working on a new plan to make effective use of the vacant space on the premises. We're going to brainstorm ideas from the entire factory to figure out "what kind of place would make everyone happy" and then bring it to life.

| Taking on the challenge of "the world's best shrimp hunt"!? A factory that enjoys both work and events to the fullest.

— I hear that you all have a great time at events outside of work as well?

Yamane: That's right. In fact, we even hold an in-house shrimp-hunting championship, modeled after the "World Shrimp Hunting Championship" held annually in Yamaguchi City! (laughs)

Scenes from the "Shrimp Hunting Championship." In addition to shrimp hunting in the tidal flats, there was also a watermelon smashing event, making it a day filled with smiles and cheers for families to enjoy together.

Kawamura: We set up our own nets, release shrimp, and then catch them with our bare hands. There are some people who are like pros and can catch more than 20 shrimp by themselves, so it's one of the company events that gets everyone really excited.

Yamane: One of the great things about the Hofu factory is that everyone can genuinely enjoy themselves, regardless of department or position, including events like this. We can talk about work-related problems and casual conversations on a level playing field, and we have an environment where we can all work together to turn ideas from the field, like the water supply station and the herb project, into reality.

Going forward, we want to continue creating a workplace where everyone can work comfortably and happily, while cherishing and incorporating everyone's "wish list" ideas!

[Editor's Note]

At the Hofu factory, ideas like "Wouldn't it be nice to have this?" naturally take shape. From water vending machines and watering hoses to stories of herbs planted by non-smokers, thoughtfulness towards colleagues was evident everywhere.

This interview made me realize that it's because there's a warm atmosphere across departments where everyone works together to create a comfortable workplace that ideas that lead to future success naturally emerge!