BCCJ Acumen – The Magazine of the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan

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May 2013

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

After Dark: Times Still Hard; Parental Presents; Will New LDP Policies Foment Clock-watching?; Getting Them Young

»

Anniversary

UK–Japan: History Highlights

by Custom Media

The second part in our series on the 400th anniversary of UK–Japan ties notes some major events that have linked the two countries.

»

Profile

FT: The Honest Financier’s Friend

by Julian Ryall

Famously pink and the must-read publication for anyone in the business world, the Financial Times recently marked its 125th birthday.

»

Interview

Yuzo Yagi

by Megan Waters

President, chairman and CEO of Yagi Tsusho Limited

»

Interview

David Swan

by Megan Waters

In 2000, we expanded our specialist recruitment business to Tokyo. At that time, not many foreign recruitment firms were operating in Japan.

»

Corporate Governance

Warning: Reform or Fail

by Julian Ryall

Britain is a global leader in the area of corporate governance and there are many lessons that our firms have learned that are also applicable in Japan, according to speakers at a recent symposium organised by The Nippon Foundation.

»

Cover Story

Making Waves in Tidal Energy

by Julian Ryall

In a series of sea lochs and inlets on the western coast of Orkney, northern Scotland, there is movement in the water.

»

Poll

FCIJ Business Confidence Survey

by Megan Waters

The 23rd Foreign Chambers in Japan Business Confidence Survey received 293 valid responses from members of business organisations and 18 foreign chambers of commerce.

»

Industry

Anti-bribery and Corruption Law: Renewed Intent

by Patric McGonigal

Firms operating globally should take note. Revised guidance from both the US and UK authorities together with strong statements of renewed intent signal that enforcement actions are expected to continue to heat up in the years ahead.

»

Industry

Compliance: Avoiding Traps for the Unwary

by Daiske Yoshida

Almost all public firms mention their commitment to compliance on their websites and publicity materials. Such pronouncements are important, but they are nothing more than empty words unless they are backed by action.

»

Industry

Strategy Isn’t the Issue

by Dr Greg Story

I recently attended a highly interactive corporate planning and strategy event in Tokyo, together with many prominent local chief executive officers from global players.

»

Charity

TELL: “Forty for the Future”

by Ian de Stains OBE

Forty years ago, a lone volunteer in a small room somewhere in Tokyo picked up a phone and said: “Tokyo English Life Line. Can I help you?”

»

Adventure

Scuppered, Saved and Happy Socks

by Julian Ryall

Utterly undeterred by Tropical Storm Mawar scuppering her initial attempt to be the first person to row solo across the North Pacific from Japan to Canada in May last year, Sarah Outen set out once again from Choshi Marina, Chiba Prefecture, shortly after 3:30pm on 27 April on the toughest leg of her journey by bicycle, kayak and rowing boat around the planet.

»

Sport

Stumped!

by Mike Galbraith

In June, the quintessential English game of cricket will become the first major Western sport to hit the 150-year mark in terms of documented matches.

»

Sport

Howzat for Holyrood Honour?

by Julian Ryall

The Scottish Parliament has recognised the contribution that Alex Miyaji, chief executive officer of the Japan Cricket Association, has made to the promotion of cricket in Japan. In addition, they proposed a match between Scotland and Japan to help the growth of the sport here, and cement ties between the two nations.

»

Art

Desperate, Joyous and Intense

by Dr Itsuo Nakano

Is God an accountant or a butcher?” This question, in a modern comedy I once attended, resonates in my mind. I remember an intense dialogue between a man and a woman, with nothing else on stage except two chairs.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Yoko Yanagimoto

Arts events compiled by Yoko Yanagimoto.

»

Health

Well-being or Discomfort?

by Dr Tom Lomax

Only the youngest of my daughters, now six years old, has any interest in becoming a doctor. She is already preparing for her future career; her toy stethoscope is getting plenty of use.

»

If You Ask Me

Irony of the Iron Lady

by Ian de Stains OBE

In death, as in life, she was divisive and, no doubt, relished the fact. When news came of the death of Baroness Margaret Thatcher at the age of 87, few could have been surprised.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

One of the many great pleasures of reading the weekend edition of the Financial Times (FT) is the entertainment value. Although we more frequently turn to the pink broadsheet for authoritative analysis and information, it is reassuring to know that its editors also see value in more light-hearted fare.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Handling Nasty Questions from Nasty People

by Dr Greg Story

We have probably all been on the receiving end of it or have been a witness to it. The presentation is completed, after which come the questions; some are fact finding, some seek clarification, while some are just plain nasty.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Finding Everyday Sustainability

by Joan Lambert Bailey

From newspapers and magazines to advertisements, we hear how a product is sustainable (or not) and why we should (or shouldn’t) use it to add sustainability to our lives.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Temporary Staffing Options to Support Your Business

by Natasha Brooks

The benefits of a flexible workforce are well known in many parts of the world. However, some businesses in Japan remain cautious about hiring professional contractors.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

April 2013

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Slapping No Sense into Them

by Dr Greg Story

The Sakuranomiya senior high school basketball captain chose death rather than experience another demeaning day of face slaps from his coach.

»

Cover Story

Four Centuries of Friendship

by Julian Ryall

Four centuries after the first diplomatic mission from the UK set foot in Japan, the two nations are marking 400 years of trading, diplomatic, scientific and cultural relations with a series of events that celebrate the mutual regard and friendship between the two societies.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

How to Retain Your Best Talent

by Basil Le Roux

You’ve secured the perfect candidate for a role and they are starting next week. Considering the time and money invested in the new employee’s recruitment, you will want them to remain engaged in a productive career with your firm over the long term.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

UK–Japan: Closer Than You Think?

by Dave McCaughan

Shimaguni konjo (island nation mentality) is a term I have often heard applied to the seeming similarities between Japan and the UK.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Rise of the Herbivorous Spender; More Singles Forgoing the Group to Go It Alone; Poll: Public Cool on Tokyo 2020 Olympic Bid; Demand Grows as Camping Cars Shrink

»

Trade

Trading Places

by Julian Ryall

When the liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker Ob River put in to the Kyushu port of Tobata last December, it had completed a journey that will open up vast new opportunities for transport and shipping firms that ply the waters between Europe and the Far East.

»

Tourism

Leaving London

by Custom Media

Office workers looked down from the towering block as an authentic Yeomen Warder—commonly known as a Beefeater—from the Tower of London posed for photos, while passers-by stopped to listen to a DJ playing tracks by the Rolling Stones, The Beatles and Queen.

»

BCCJ Event

Diversity Beyond Gender: People with Disabilities

by Megan Waters

People with certain disabilities—physical, mental or intellectual—are often an overlooked and under-hired sector of the talent pool.

»

Diversity

Foster Talent, Skills, Creativity

by Seikei Itoh

Unilever aims to double the size of its business while reducing its environmental footprint and increasing its positive impact.

»

FDI

Africa: Riches and Risks

by Julian Ryall

The risks of doing business in Africa were graphically underlined in January, when fundamentalists opposed to France’s intervention in Mali took more than 800 workers hostage from the Tigantourine gas production facility near the Algerian town of In Amenas.

»

Energy

Woman’s Touch, Outsider’s Eye

by Julian Ryall

Lady Barbara Judge CBE is instituting a new safety culture at Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO).

»

Visiting Japan

Jobs for the Boyos

by Custom Media

David Jones, the secretary of state for Wales, has promised the engineers and executives of Hitachi Ltd. that, on arrival in his homeland, they will receive as warm a welcome as he was given here.

»

Industry

British Isles, Japanese Islands

by Ben Byrne

This year marks the 400th anniversary of the establishment of trade relations between the UK and Japan.

»

Industry

From Novelty to Necessity

by Richard Kipnis

In a few short years, live streaming video has gone from being a novelty to a necessity for business.

»

Publicity

Japan—Lack of Trust Now Embedded

by Custom Media

Last December, a tunnel on one of Japan’s key arterial highways collapsed. Among the grief and sadness that followed this accident, one lady’s comment stood out: “You can’t even trust the tunnels in this country anymore”.

»

Film

Coming Out of the Closet

by Julian Ryall

Inspired by an article he had read in The Daily Telegraph in May 2008, a British artist and filmmaker has released a short film that takes the curious case of Tatsuko Horikawa and gives it a dramatic new setting in the mountains of Wales.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Yoko Yanagimoto

Arts events compiled by Yoko Yanagimoto.

»

If You Ask Me

With this Ring ...

by Ian de Stains OBE

British Prime Minister David Cameron has gone out on a limb to promote it; US President Barack Obama has soundly endorsed it; the establishment fumes and rails against it; and the religious of virtually every stripe condemn it.

»

History

Truth and Lies

by Julian Ryall

A former British soldier has written what is probably the most authoritative and painstakingly researched book on the 1942 fall of Singapore.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

Strong in the Rain
After the Great East Japan Earthquake

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

March 2013

Cover Story

Tokyo’s Shrine to Sport

by Julian Ryall

British architect Zaha Hadid CBE has won the New National Stadium International Design Competition for the construction of the New National Stadium Japan, with the selection panel praising the project for its dynamism.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Networking that Works

by Dr Greg Story

How big is your database of contacts? How many business cards have you collected and filed? How many people do you know? Turns out these are all rather pointless questions!

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Something Green around Every Corner

by Joan Lambert Bailey

At almost any given moment in spring, somewhere in Japan people can be found seated under boughs heavy with the pale pink blooms of the sakura (ornamental cherry blossom tree).

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

How to Manage those Meeting Monsters

by Anne Good

In the December issue of BCCJ ACUMEN, I wrote an article on meeting monsters (“Are You a Meeting Monster?”, page 29) that has elicited some interesting responses. I thought it would be a good idea to provide some solutions concerning how to deal with these monsters.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Targeting Insular and “New Yankee” Consumers; Cycling Overnighters; Department Stores, Railways Cater to Foreigners; Taxman Targets Expats; and Pack Rats: Enemies of the Economy

»

Visiting Japan

Getting Back on Track

by Julian Ryall

Scottish-born entrepreneur Thomas Glover brought the first steam train to Japan in 1868, demonstrating the Iron Duke on a 13km track in Nagasaki. According to reports from the time, locals who saw the demonstration were in awe of British technology.

»

Aviation

Blue-sky Thinking

by Julian Ryall

National Air Traffic Services (NATS), the UK-based provider of air traffic services around the world, has linked up with Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc. (MRI) to look into “exciting” new opportunities in the aviation sector in Japan and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

»

Motors

Battle of the Black Cabs

by Julian Ryall

With some of the most cutting-edge technology that one of Japan’s leading automobile manufacturers has ever devised, the new generation of London’s Hackney Carriages is to bring together the heritage and iconic design values for which the vehicle is renowned around the world.

»

BCCJ Event

Lord Marland

by Julian Ryall

The UK’s business community in Japan is “in the vanguard of the British economic recovery” and successes here will translate into increased trade, the creation of more jobs and growth at home, Lord Jonathan Marland told a British Chamber of Commerce in Japan luncheon at the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo in late February.

»

Charity

Middle-aged Men in Lycra

by Julian Ryall

Ten British cyclists—who happily describe themselves as keen amateurs—are to cycle 320km from Tokyo to Fukushima Prefecture to raise funds for the disaster-hit residents of Minamisoma.

»

Publicity

A British Education

by Custom Media

Offering a first-class education to more than 700 young people from the age of three to 18, the British School in Tokyo (BST) is approaching its 25th anniversary at an exciting time in its development.

»

Charity

Tools and Skills

by Julian Ryall

Two years on from the Great East Japan Earthquake, the towns and villages laid waste by the triple disaster have been helped to their knees; now it is time for a final push that will get them back on their feet.

»

Fashion

Old is New

by Julian Ryall

A British entrepreneur is giving a new lease of life to vintage kimono and obi (sashes) by turning them into eye-catching items of clothing, bags and home furnishings, while at the same time helping some of the people worst affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.

»

Awards

For Language and Science

by Julian Ryall

Two Britons have received awards from the Japanese government for their contributions over many years to improving relations between the two countries.

»

Industry

UK Firm Pensions: Is the End Nigh?

by Tony Evans

In 2007, the world suffered the largest financial meltdown of our generation. While this was a key catalyst in today’s pension crisis, it is not the sole issue.

»

Industry

Car Insurance in Japan

by Steve Burson

Although the basic idea of car insurance in Japan will seem familiar to foreigners, car insurance here is very different from that in other countries.

»

Music

Living the Dream

by Julian Ryall

In bars, live houses and recording studios around Tokyo, musicians from across the UK are demonstrating that Britons really do have talent.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Yoko Yanagimoto

Arts events compiled by Yoko Yanagimoto

»

Art

Otemachi Financial City Art Project

by Kate Thomson

Living and working in Iwate Prefecture, I am inspired by the seasonal, solar, lunar and stellar cycles, as well as the countryside.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

Exposure
Firm Commitment

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

February 2013

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Flexible Japan—Stop Dreaming!

by Dr Greg Story

Around the world, the service industry is the most obvious area where we come in contact with classic inflexible attitudes on the part of staff.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Sustainable Recovery Taking Root in Tohoku

by Joan Lambert Bailey

As the rebuilding of the region’s economic and social infrastructure continues, sustainable entrepreneurship is helping to keep afloat the aspirations of shattered localities.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Protect Your Health

by Michiaki Tanaka

In 2013, from a feng shui perspective, women will tend to experience complaints affecting the stomach, tummy and womb.

»

Cover Story

Meet the New Ambassador

by Simon Farrell

The UK and Japan share a curiosity and appetite for each other’s products, services and culture, says London’s recently appointed chief diplomat to its “closest partner in Asia”. He is busy promoting modern Britain’s creativity, diversity and ability to deliver.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Recession Bites into Lunch, Drink Budgets; Edgy Kanto Consumers Shun Shopping; Net Poll Reveals Buyer Trends; Remote Rules Eased for Domestic Devices

»

Poll

Salary Survey Results

by Megan Waters

Leading specialist recruiting firms annually compile salary surveys to provide those in the industry, their clients and potential clients, a comprehensive review of global conditions and salary levels in the recruitment market.

»

Visiting Japan

Hugo Swire

by Julian Ryall

Bearing in mind the specialist skills and knowledge that abound at many British firms, Hugo Swire, minister of state for the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, was keen to emphasise the opportunities for joint ventures across all business sectors during his mid-January visit to Tokyo.

»

Environment

TARGET: Zero Kills

by Julian Ryall

As dawn broke on two of the most important days of the year—Christmas and New Year’s Day—for Gillian Graham, she was about as far away from her home as it was possible to be.

»

Environment

The Whale Truth

by Julian Ryall

A comprehensive new report commissioned by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) has thoroughly debunked the explanations used by Japanese authorities to justify the continuation of the nation’s whaling programme.

»

Publicity

JFTC 2012 Essay Competition

by Custom Media

ccepting his prize at a reception held at the Hotel New Otani on 8 January, Michael Sullivan fought off competition from a record 216 entrants to take the top award in the 2012 Essay Competition on the theme of “Strategies for a Depopulating Japan” conducted by the Japan Foreign Trade Council Inc. (JFTC).

»

Beer

Tapping Changing Tastes

by Justin McCurry

The dimly lit dance floor of a nightclub in Tokyo’s Shibuya district may not sound like the ideal place for an event promoting the craft of brewing beer.

»

Property

Investing in Tokyo

by Megan Waters

Foreign investors are, once again, purchasing Tokyo property. According to the 2012 annual report of the global property-consulting firm Jones Lang LaSalle, Tokyo was the fourth most popular place in the world for real estate investment.

»

Industry

A State of Flux

by Aki Nitta

Relocation firms in Japan have experienced tough challenges since the March 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, which caused the market to shrink and the relocation industry to become even more competitive.

»

Industry

Watch This Space

by Hiroyuki Isobe

The global economy faced serious problems after the 2008 Lehman Shock, causing the Greek debt crisis that created credit insecurity for all countries in the European Union. The US economy weakened, while a slowdown was evident in China and the emerging economies.

»

Publicity

Manchester United Soccer Schools Coming to Japan

by Custom Media

Building on the success of our programmes in the UK, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, Manchester United Soccer Schools will work with the UK-based Hiroshima firm, GEC World, to deliver football camps in Japan this spring.

»

Interview

Corporate Governance: The Western Way

by Julian Ryall

Simon Chelton is co-founder of Engress Intercultural Senior Leadership (ISL), a UK-based consultancy that provides offsite workshops for Japanese business leaders to enable them to develop Western approaches to working with customers, clients, partners, employees, shareholders and regulators.

»

Social

Where Rocket Scientists Meet?

by Custom Media

The exact date of the first meeting of what would later become The Cambridge and Oxford Society may have been lost in the mists of time, but the aims of the association are not in doubt.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Yoko Yanagimoto

Arts events compiled by Yoko Yanagimoto.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

Made in Japan
Shinto Shrines

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

January 2013

Cover Story, Creative

Art in the Dark

by Julian Ryall

Illuminated against the autumn sky, artists in suits jogged, sprinted and cavorted through Yokohama’s streets and parks on 3 and 4 November, as part of the contribution by British artists to the Smart Illumination Yokohama Festival 2012.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Mobile Websites: Not Only an Option

by Sam Bird

According to a recent Microsoft Tag report, mobile internet usage is set to overtake that of desktop computers by 2014. Another prediction—that the number of mobile devices will soon be greater than the world population—highlights the sea change in how people access information.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Green Cleaning Tips

by Joan Lambert Bailey

Household cleaning is a necessary part of life, but can be fraught with hazards. Many modern cleaners easily remove stains and dirt, but often leave behind residue and damage the environment.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Investment Advice: A Review

by Chris Cleary and Trevor Reynolds

Financial advice is a perplexing subject, so let’s start with the negatives.

i) Markets are inherently unpredictable, chaotic in the technical sense of the word, and we can’t know what the future will bring.

»

Japanese Media

What you missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Surge of Private Brands, In-house Training Preferred, Bailing Out of Tokyo, IC Cards to Be Accepted Nationwide

»

Fashion

It’s All in the Detail

by Custom Media

Japan has always been a fertile hunting ground for the UK’s fashion designers, but the two-day showcase event of this year’s Great Britain Fashion Mission to Japan attracted the highest-ever number of buyers and media visitors.

»

Interview

Ernfred Olsen

by Julian Ryall

Founded in Edinburgh in 1727, the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has over 140,000 employees and serves about 30mn customers in 38 countries. In the third quarter of 2012, RBS reported a core operating profit of £1.633bn, up from £980mn the previous year.

»

Engineering

Torque of the Town

by Custom Media

From the bottom of the world’s deepest oceans to aboard the International Space Station, Norbar Torque Tools Ltd. plays a critical role in ensuring that state-of-the-art equipment performs to its full capacity.

»

Publicity

Bridging the Global Achievement Gap

by Custom Media

The British School in Tokyo (BST) has enjoyed an enviable reputation for the provision of high-quality education since first opening its doors in Shibuya almost a quarter of a century ago. However, the past year has seen its star rise even higher.

»

Industry

Building Trust

by Megan Waters

Established in 1934, the British Council operates in more than 100 countries and territories to spread and strengthen Britain’s influence through the development of cultural relations.

»

Publicity

McGill University

by Custom Media

McGill University’s Desautels Faculty of Management is at the forefront of management research and education. It aims to foster continued innovation, leverage excellence and develop students into business leaders who have a global outlook and understand the importance of personal responsibility.

»

Industry

The Vision Thing

by Dr Greg Story

Leadership is a constant battered by fashion. The best sellers come and go, and their authors flame out trying to extend the brand. We all seem to have a huge appetite for answers, and want to find that edge or glint of an idea that will secure the required result.

»

Food

Unearthing the Secrets of Wasabi

by Julian Ryall

In a tranquil valley in Dorset, south-west England—the exact location is a closely guarded secret—a uniquely Japanese crop is taking hold in beds fed by an artesian spring alongside the River Frome.

»

Culture

Hyper Japan 2012

by Megan Waters

Held on 23–25 November, Hyper Japan 2012 showcased Japan’s vibrant pop culture, including manga, anime and J-pop; traditional Japanese culture; food and drink; stage performances and workshops.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Yoko Yanagimoto

Arts events compiled by Yoko Yanagimoto.

»

History

Helping the Enemy

by Julian Ryall

A new book by a World War II veteran has shed light on a little-known postscript to the conflict in the Far East—and one that was officially denied by the UK government of the day.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

January is traditionally a time for making new year resolutions and for setting or reviewing goals, whether personal or professional. So it is timely that this month’s books promise to help you thrive and prosper. However, they couldn’t be more different.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

December 2012

Cover Story

Pass the Salmon, Please!

by Julian Ryall

Among the things that struck Richard Lochhead—a member of the Scottish Parliament and cabinet secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment—on his first visit to Japan, were the quality and presentation of food, as well as the passion that Japanese people have for what they eat.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Business Embraces Video

by Mike DeJong

Seen a good video lately? If you are like most corporate executives, you probably have. Chances are you’ve viewed YouTube to catch up on industry trends or best practises.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Feng Shui Business Forecast 2013

by Michiaki Tanaka

According to the ancient Chinese lunar calendar, 2013—the year of the water snake—starts on 10 February.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Engaged, Energised, Motivated Employees

by Dr Greg Story

This title sounds good doesn’t it or, after a spot of self-reflection, is depression beginning to seep in? Why don’t we have more engaged, energised and motivated employees?

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Hitto Products Despite Tough Times, Duty-free System to Be Streamlined, Thirst for UK-style Pubs, Do You Walk on Escalators?

»

Drinks, Food

Mission Accomplished

by Julian Ryall

The recent trade mission to Japan to promote Scottish food and drink paid an immediate dividend after The Scottish Deli announced that its next order from Japan had tripled in size, thereby adding five top-end fish and shellfish products to its range of exports.

»

Defence

After the Typhoon

by Custom Media

When Japan decided not to buy the Eurofighter Typhoon as its next-generation fighter aircraft, there was deep disappointment among the firms in the consortium that had designed it, including the UK’s BAE Systems plc and Rolls-Royce plc.

»

Legal

Raising the Bar

by Julian Ryall

December marks an important anniversary for the legal profession in Japan, with foreign law firms celebrating a quarter of a century since they were permitted once again to practice in this jurisdiction.

»

HR

Are You a Meeting Monster?

by Anne Good

Every year I facilitate a session on managing meetings for participants of the Japan Market Expansion Competition (JMEC).

»

HR

Disability and the Workplace

by Christine Wright

The Japanese government recently implemented regulations requiring that, in firms with 50 or more employees, individuals with disabilities must account for at least 2% of the staff.

»

Charity

Shoulder to Shoulder …

by Julian Ryall

Whether it is heard at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, the Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing in Belgium or at any of the dozens of war cemeteries from Normandy to Singapore and beyond, the Last Post bugle call being played on 11 November never fails to move those who hear it.

»

Charity

Tree of Hope

by Megan Waters

Refugees International Japan (RIJ) held the opening ceremony of its 23rd Tree of Hope campaign in Akasaka’s Karajan Plaza, Ark Hills on 27 November.

»

Music

Synergy and Synthesis

by Julian Ryall

Nick Wood can trace his musical career back to the day at boarding school when he realised that students who signed up for piano lessons were excused from prep.

»

Technology

Who Needs Referees?

by Custom Media

When Frank Lampard let fly from 18 meters, smashing the ball onto the underside of the crossbar and over the white line in the knockout stages of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, everyone could see he had scored a spectacular equaliser.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Yoko Yanagimoto

Arts events compiled by Yoko Yanagimoto

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

All the Emperor’s Men: Kurisawa’s Pearl Harbor

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

November 2012

Cover Story

BCCJ 2012 British Business Awards

by Julian Ryall

The annual British Business Awards continue to go from strength to strength, with a record number of nominees vying for this year’s titles.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Beyond the Cotton Fields

by Joan Lambert Bailey

It all began on a doorstep in India. Patrick Hohmann, on a routine business trip for his Switzerland-based textile firm, Remei AG, spoke with a spinner and asked where he obtained his cotton.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Engaging Japan’s Next Generation of Leaders

by Dr Greg Story

“Leadership” and “Japan”. Using these two words in the same sentence in conversation among expats often arouses a wry chuckle.

»

Japanese Media

What you missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Leisure Consumption Still Falling, Where the Dankai Money’s Flowing, Snapping Back at Whingeing Clients, Geek Market Still Growing

»

Survey

Business Survey

by Custom Media

Conducted on 16–26 October, this year’s autumn Foreign Chambers in Japan Business Confidence Survey drew 327 valid responses from members of business organisations and 17 foreign chambers of commerce in Japan.

»

Investment

Beyond the Bright Lights

by Julian Ryall

It may have the bright lights, skyscrapers and 24-hour energy that accompanies a capital city, but Tokyo doesn’t have it all.

»

Interview

Access to Success

by Megan Waters

The ninth annual Access to Success—Doing Business in Kobe promotional seminar introduced the superior working and living environment of the Hyogo-Kobe area.

»

Creative

David Bowie and Me

by Justin McCurry

Masayoshi Sukita’s 40-year collaboration with one of the music world’s most enduring and successful artists almost didn’t happen.

»

Publicity

Supply Chain Managed Service Enables “Predictive Visibility”

by Megan Waters

Avnet Inc.’s role in high-tech supply chains enables it to co-ordinate information from start to end.

»

Procurement: Japan’s Developing World

by Rajat Jain

The role of procurement has evolved a great deal in Japan over the past 10 years, with global and regional supply administration taking precedence over local sourcing systems.

»

Publicity

Goodman Japan

by Custom Media

The logistics sector in Japan has shown solid growth in the past year.

»

Relocation, Relocation, Relocation!

by Craig Harrison

The past four years have been a challenge for most foreign firms based in Japan.

»

Relocation

UniGroup Worldwide UTS

by Megan Waters

Ongoing political issues between China and Japan are having a major influence on the relocation industry in Japan, according to Aki Nitta, general manager of UniGroup Worldwide UTS.

»

Interview

Takahisa Kashiyama

by Megan Waters

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Orient Overseas (International) Limited (OOIL), OOCL Logistics Limited is one of the world’s largest integrated international container transport, logistics and terminal firms.

»

Design

Transplanted!

by Julian Ryall

British garden designer James Basson won a gold medal and the Peace and Flowers Award at the Gardening World Cup Flower Show 2012 in Japan.

»

Sport

Japan Scottish Highland Games

by Jeff Allan

The Kanda University of International Studies hosted the 30th Japan Scottish Highland Games in early October to celebrate Scottish and Celtic culture and heritage.

»

Award

The Next Industrial Revolution?

by Julian Ryall

As an engineer at heart, Hiroshi Komiyama feels that his profession holds the key to a more sustainable and comfortable life for mankind.

»

Arts

Inspired Lines

by Julian Ryall

A British man who had never before penned a haiku, a form of Japanese poetry, won the 2012 Japan–EU English Haiku Contest.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Shoko Sekiya

Arts events compiled by Shoko Sekiya.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

The Garden of Evening Mists and Milligan and the Samurai Rebels

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

October 2012

Farewell

Farewell

by Simon Farrell

Ambassador Sir David Warren KCMG, who will soon retire from the diplomatic service after four years in Japan, spoke to BCCJ ACUMEN Publisher Simon Farrell.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Growing Solutions in Tohoku

by Joan Lambert Bailey

Aragon St-Charles could hardly believe his eyes on seeing the TV images of the 11 March 2011 tsunami. It swept across the landscape of north-east Japan and explosions rocked the damaged Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. Later, there were images of farmers gazing at land rendered useless either by the tsunami’s salt-laden toxic cocktail, or radioactive fallout.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Reward Staff to Motivate Them

by Anne Good

Visionary leaders are always looking for ways to unlock the potential of their workers. Yet many seem to miss the one approach that spurs people on in most cases—purpose-based recognition.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Stressed Out in Japan

by Dr Greg Story

Have you ever stood on a railway platform and wondered why trains are sometimes delayed in Tokyo?

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Bosses Forced to Coddle Costly Quitters, What’s So Bad about North Kanto?, Snazzy Stations Push up Property Values, Latest Top 10 Hotel Ratings Reveal Surprises

»

Cover Story

The Madness of a Ban

by Julian Ryall

Coming from herds of Aberdeen Angus, Belted Galloways, South Devons and Welsh Blacks, British beef is recognised as among the finest in the world.

»

CSR

Volunteers for the Vulnerable

by Custom Media

When the Great East Japan Earthquake struck the north-east of the country with such devastating power last year, Yoshihiro Hara had no idea how he might be able to help—but he knew he had to do something.

»

CSR

"Carnival" Raises Millions for Children with Cancer

by Custom Media

Shine On! Kids (Tyler Foundation) held it’s seventh annual fundraiser on 28 September at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo.

»

Drinks

Paid to Party

by Julian Ryall

It took Alessandro Palazzi three weeks to perfect the Fleming 89, but the author after whom it is named would surely have approved.

»

Wine

Changing Tastes

by Custom Media

There is nothing quite like a perfectly chilled white wine to soothe one during the heat of summer in Japan. Kept cool and ready to be served—be it a picnic or a barbecue, at the beach or on an urban balcony—an elegant white will always hit the spot.

»

Design

Branching Out

by Julian Ryall

Takashi Kobayashi had always felt smothered by Japanese society but had no idea how to escape from its embrace. Walking through the Tokyo suburb of Harajuku one day, he saw a shop sign depicting a tree growing out of a rock face and, perched in the branches, a tree house.

»

Design

With Dignity and Function

by Julian Ryall

A British architectural firm played a key role in the interior renovation of one of Tokyo’s most important and historical landmarks.

»

Travel

Joining Forces

by Megan Waters

In exciting news for travellers, British Airways (BA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) have established a joint business agreement on certain flights between Europe and Japan.

»

Hospitality

Home from Home

by Megan Waters

Despite the economic fallout from the Great East Japan Earthquake last year, the serviced apartment market in Tokyo is stable and the industry is doing very well.

»

Let's Meet in Yokohama!

by Megan Waters

For a broad selection of meeting and banquet rooms, look no further than the Yokohama Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers. Part of the larger Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., the hotel is proud of its newly refurbished venues that can accommodate from small meetings to formal dining events and large international conferences.

»

Industry

A love of All Things British … Except the Food

by Ian Tozer

It is to be hoped that Japan might, finally, start to overcome the general disdain for British cooking. The success of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the vast positive exposure the UK has received this year surely cannot have been for naught.

»

Travel

Interview

by Megan Waters

Founded in 1919, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is the oldest airline still flying under its original name. Operating safe and comfortable flights in Japan for 61 years, KLM is the only airline that has direct daily links between Narita and Kansai airports and Amsterdam.

»

Food

Marmite and Natto

by Julian Ryall

When Kimiko Osada first arrived in Britain in 1972, Japanese food was not only unobtainable, it was almost completely unknown. In the intervening four decades, she has become Kimiko Barber, published six books on Japanese cuisine and made it her mission to encourage Britons to cook Japanese food at home. She firmly believes that good, healthy eating starts at home.

»

Books

Searching for My Sons

by Julian Ryall

The last time the Scottish author saw his two sons was in 2003—when Satomi was six and Makoto was just four. His latest book tells of the minutes leading up to the realisation that his Japanese wife, Tomoko, had abducted them and fled their home in rural Fife for a suburb of Osaka.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

The British and Irish Short Story Handbook and The Light Between Oceans

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Shoko Sekiya

Arts events compiled by Shoko Sekiya.

»

Culture

British Performing Arts Festival 2012

by Megan Waters

The UK and Japan share a love of the theatre that, in both countries, has a long history and plays an important role in the lives of their people.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

September 2012

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Tokyo Farmer's Markets

by Joan Lambert Bailey

Why take the extra time to visit a farmers’ market when supermarkets and convenience stores are on nearly every corner in Tokyo and food co-ops deliver right to your door?

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Paul Kerr

by Megan Waters

London-based Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is all about helping small, independently owned luxury hotels by providing economies of scale similar to those achieved by the large international hotel chains, while allowing them to maintain their individuality and independence.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Attitude Makes Altitude

by Dr Greg Story

Getting someone to buy whatever you are selling can be fraught with difficulty. Sales managers and teams need to succeed or it’s game over for them.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

When Diversity Upsets the Workplace, Who Gives the Best—and Worst—Service?, Konbini Wired for Sales, Items Sold Abroad Online

»

BCCJ Event

Diversity: What's the Point?

by Julian Ryall

The concept of diversity—from gender, age and sexual orientation, to cultural background, education and handicap—is largely embraced and actively encouraged today by Western firms.

»

Cover Story

Flying the Flag for Fashion

by Julian Ryall

The unmistakable red, white and blue of the UK’s Union Jack flag has become de rigueur in Japanese fashion circles, usurping the Stars and Stripes of the US as the design in which to be seen.

»

Great British Brands

GlaxoSmithKline plc

by Julian Ryall

Innovation is the bedrock on which GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) plc. is built. Nearly 300 years after the founding of the pharmacy from which the modern firm has evolved, GSK remains committed to exploring directions that others in the sector choose to ignore.

»

Publicity

Diversity Survey Results 2012

by Christine Wright

For its recent diversity survey, Hays Specialist Recruitment Japan KK polled 1,000 hiring and line managers, as well as female candidates, all of whom, in November and December 2011, had been placed in a new role, or who had been looking for a new position.

»

Education

Which MBA in Japan?

by Robert Gilhooly

It was not so long ago in Japan that business know-how gained on the job was considered to be more important than anything learned from books.

»

Education

New Approach to Testing English

by Barry O Sullivan

Global jinzai (human resources) has become a buzzword used in discussions about Japan’s international competitiveness. Japan’s private and public sectors wish to increase this by educating people with the required skills to succeed in the international workplace.

»

History

The Namamugi Incident

by Julian Ryall

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Namamugi Incident, the conflict in which samurai killed a British trader, resulting in feudal Japan being brought into the modern era.

»

Creative

On Safari with Urban Snappers

by Julian Ryall

A picture, they say, is worth a thousand words. Attend one of Alfie Goodrich’s roving photography classes and you’ll get the thousand words thrown in, as advice on how to capture that perfect image.

»

Food

Creating Classic Cuisine

by Julian Ryall

In the 11 years since chef Ian Tozer opened Roti, a US-style grill and rotisserie, he has noticed big differences in the way in which a substantial portion of the restaurant’s clientele likes to eat.

»

Fight or Flight

by Eamon Flanagan

Japan’s recruitment market is experiencing severe challenges due to the shift in demographics currently taking place. Research indicates that, by 2060, Japan’s population will have shrunk by one-third, while the number of people aged 65 or over will almost have doubled.

»

Globalisation through Gender Diversity

by David Swan

Diversity in the workplace has become an authentic tool to drive business growth in Japan.

»

Future of Japan's Jobs Market

by Robert Gilhooly

At a glance, Randstad’s slogan might seem somewhat overused. “Good to know you” encapsulates more than 50 years of a firm’s ethos that places value on understanding its clients and candidates. It is also an appropriate adage for the far-from-rosy future of Japan’s employment market.

»

Industry

The Death of on-the-job Training

by Dr Greg Story

A silent, tectonic shift is taking place in Japan. The so-called lost decade—that commenced in the 1990s with the collapse of the nation’s asset prices—is now into a third decade. The period has seen stasis in many areas, including investment in human-capital productivity.

»

Sport

More to Rugby Than a Ruck

by Julian Ryall

Rugby Union has a long and distinguished history in Japan, and there are high hopes that the sport, at all levels, will experience a further boost in the run-up to Japan hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2019.

»

Music

Merging Music

by Julian Ryall

Susanne Bayly was pregnant with Diana Yukawa on 12 August 1985, when Japan Airlines flight 123 from Haneda International Airport to Osaka crashed into Mt Osutaka in Gunma Prefecture. Diana’s father Akihisa was among the 520 people who did not survive the worst single-aircraft crash in history.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Shoko Sekiya

Arts events compiled by Shoko Sekiya.

»

Books

Book Review

by Ian de Stains OBE

Products such as the Amazon Kindle and Apple iPad have changed the way many people enjoy the reading experience.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

August 2012

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Generating Ideas With Focus Maps

by Dr Greg Story

Witnessing the silent rows of downcast eyes around the meeting room after your heroic call for ideas and input can be a character-building experience in Japan. You may wonder, “How did this country get to where it is, when nobody seems to have any ideas?” Or, even, “Is my leadership insufficient to the task?”

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Beat the Heat

by Joan Lambert Bailey

Tokyo is not only the biggest city in which I’ve ever lived, but also one of the hottest. In my native US midwest, the heat and humidity usually settle for one week at a time, only to be chased away by dramatic thunderstorms.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Beware the Year of the Water Dragon

by Michiaki Tanaka

Since the beginning of 2012, we have seen the word Libor in newspaper headlines almost every day. The scandal surrounding the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)—the inter-bank lending rate—involved a series of fraudulent actions that resulted in numerous investigations. It will lead to a substantial change in the financial system, and has been one of the biggest issues so far this year. I am very sure that there is a feng shui connection.

»

Creative

At Home with the Stones

by Julian Ryall

Offstage, Mick is far less of an extrovert, while Keith likes nothing more than to listen to the playback with the crew after a rehearsal. Charlie values his privacy and prefers not to be seen as a rock ’n’ roll drummer, while Ronnie has exchanged Guinness for iced tea.

»

Cover Story

British Music—Then, Now and Beyond

by Custom Media

In an ideal setting, high up among gentle streams and in a wooded valley, about 140,000 music lovers at the Fuji Rock Festival 2012 on 27–29 July enjoyed dozens of acts, among them 1970s and 1980s classics sung by Elvis Costello, Ray Davies and The Specials.

»

Publicity

Viewing the Cloud Homogeneously

by Custom Media

Cloud infrastructures must meet the highest requirements relating to data protection and availability. But how can the quality requirements be met and data security be guaranteed? Service providers show significant differences here. What should companies take note of when selecting the provider?

»

Education

International Schools

by Robert Gilhooly

While concerns surrounding last year’s disasters in Tohoku and the current economic climate linger, expatriate parents in Japan face a perennial cause of anxiety: where to send the children to school.

»

Travel

Rubble in Paradise

by Julian Ryall

The island of Pohnpei has a state-of-the-art airport that is the envy of the Pacific, thanks to the efforts of Brian Moore, the British manager of the project for Japan’s Penta-Ocean Construction Co., Ltd.

»

Hospitality

Let's Go to the Gate

by Robert Gilhooly

When the Gate Hotel Kaminarimon welcomed its first guests on 10 August, it did so equipped with a philosophy and long-term objective. Occupying the building’s third to 14th floors it stands out—although not as tall—as does its impressive new neighbour across the Sumida River, the Tokyo Skytree.

»

Sport

Sick as a Parrot

by Julian Ryall

The Briton who laid the foundations of football in Pohnpei is calling on the sport’s highest ranks for funding to develop the game in this Pacific outpost.

»

Design

Garden Made for Gold

by Julian Ryall

Kazuyuki Ishihara won the gold medal in the Artisan Garden category at the Royal Horticultural Society’s annual Chelsea Flower Show in late May, bringing home his seventh award from the world’s most famous gardening event. And of that medal total, no fewer than four have now been gold.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

You’ve GOT to Read This Book! and Hedge Fund Activism in Japan

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Fears Grow over Industrial Spying, Auditing Housewives, Now It’s One-coin Car Rentals, What “Buried Treasure” Do You Have at Home?, Hotels Get Creative

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Shoko Nakamura

Arts events compiled by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

July 2012

Cover Story

Let the Games Begin

by Julian Ryall

For the third time, London is counting down the days until it stages the opening ceremony for the Olympic Games and hosts the biggest event on the global sporting calendar. And while all eyes are likely to be on the competitors going for gold, the impact of the XXX Olympiad on business will go far beyond what happens on the field of play.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

The Fight for Global Talent

by David Swan

Firms are on a war footing, fighting to attract the best talent in Japan. In an effort to globalise, many Japanese and foreign firms are aggressively pursuing the skilled, particularly industry-experienced, bilingual professionals who have a mindset amenable to global business.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

"R" You Ready for Mistakes?

by Dr Greg Story

Ah … mistakes. That is a very tricky area for managers to handle. Their reactions vary, from spontaneous combustion to a passive shoulder shrug.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Sustainability Starts at Home

by Joan Lambert Bailey

With 35 years’ experience between them, sustainability consultants Peo and Satoko Ekberg have guided large and small organisations to ecologically greener pastures. Spreading their message of sustainability, the couple has led eco tours to Peo’s native Sweden, written four books, delivered countless lectures, and held workshops around Japan and worldwide.

»

Win a Three-night Stay at a Luxury Hotel!

by Custom Media

Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) offers an intimate and personalised service to suit your specific needs. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, culture or indulgence every SLH hotel offers an unforgettable experience.

»

Win a One-night Stay at Tokyo’s Newest Hotel!

by Custom Media

Only 15 minutes from the Tokyo Sky Tree, the 14-floor Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by HULIC offers spectacular views of the world’s tallest tower. Located in the heart of Asakusa, hotel guests can also enjoy the Edo culture of old Tokyo.

»

Olympics

Remember Tokyo 1964? I do.

by Henry Scott Stokes

I initially came here in July 1964 as the first Financial Times staffer to be posted in Tokyo, with the idea to latch onto Japan as it prepared to fling open the doors to the outside world during that year’s Summer Olympics.

»

Olympics

Kasumi Ishikawa

by Julian Ryall

The last time that Kasumi Ishikawa competed in London, a bee spiralled down from the ceiling and landed on the table tennis table. The bee’s unscheduled appearance—until it was removed by a referee—was a positive omen, however, as the bubbly 19-year-old went on to win the Under-21 Singles title.

»

Olympics

Genki Dean

by Justin McCurry

Genki Dean is quickly discovering the minor drawbacks to being one of Japan’s most sought-after Olympic athletes. Two days after he trained in the pouring rain in front of 80 Japanese reporters, cameramen and photographers, the 20-year-old javelin thrower is nursing a fever and a rasping cough.

»

Publicity

JFTC Essay Competition 2012

by Custom Media

Since 2005, the Japan Foreign Trade Council, Inc. (JFTC) has sponsored an annual essay competition to encourage students, young researchers and business people to express their opinions on matters of national and international importance.

»

Gongs

Queen's Birthday Awards for Britons in Japan

by Custom Media

BCCJ ACUMEN and Custom Media would like to congratulate two members of the BCCJ Executive Committee and another British resident of Japan who were recognised in Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s Birthday Honours List in June. The three appointees told ACUMEN how they feel about their awards.

»

Competition

Tomorrow's Leaders

by Julian Ryall

There is an old Chinese proverb that says when planning for a year, sow corn, but when planning for a decade, plant trees. When planning for life, so the saying goes, train and educate people.

»

CSR

Unilever Awarded Gender Diversity Prize

by Custom Media

Unilever Japan has been recognised for its exceptional commitment to gender diversity by one of the most influential business publishers in Japan.

»

Design

Creating Space

by Julian Ryall

In a city where apartments are notoriously small, badly lit and uninspiring in their design, Akira Koyama has devised an antidote. And so impressive is the Yotsuya Tenera complex that the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in late June awarded it one of the coveted RIBA International Awards.

»

Style

Two Wheels + Testosterone = TRIUMPH

by Julian Ryall

Business is brisk for a firm that produces some of the most iconic works of two-wheeled engineering on the road. Nevertheless, Triumph Japan President David Blume OBE does wish that young Japanese would produce a little more testosterone.

»

FDI

Myanmar: Investor Haven?

by Marc Rathbone and Andrew Whan

A history of political instability, ethnic violence, international sanctions and a lack of legal protection for foreign investors are the hallmarks of the economic climate in Myanmar. But have we turned a corner?

»

Health

Easier Access to Vaccines

by Julian Ryall

A new vaccines company that brings together two of the biggest and most innovative firms in the business was launched in Japan on 2 July. Its aim is to ensure that people in this country have access to innovative vaccines already available in other developed nations.

»

Publicity

New Partnership To Revolutionize Talent Management in Japan

by Custom Media

Canning Professional KK recently announced it had launched a new brand, McLeish Wang, and had reached an agreement with UK-based Saville Consulting to bring the groundbreaking psychometric tool Saville Consulting Wave and the rest of the Saville suite of aptitude tests and psychometrics to Japan as the firm’s official partner.

»

Interview

Hire, Train, Retain

by Julian Ryall

Richard King is very aware of the wisdom of the old adage concerning eggs and baskets. In 2001, when specialist recruitment firm Michael Page International began its Japan operations, the initial rapid growth reflected the expanding banking and accounting sectors.

»

Industry

High-tech Meets History

by Custom Media

Amid the age-old palaces, temples and gardens of Japan’s ancient capital, two firms founded by British software experts are busy creating state-of-the-art content for the latest game platforms.

»

Publicity

The IP Telephone Revolution

by Huw R Williams

When I first visited Japan more than 20 years ago, it was cheaper to call Osaka from New York than to do so from Tokyo. Thus there were a number of callback services that took advantage of this fact to provide lower cost, domestic long-distance telephone services in Japan.

»

Symposium

Business Continuity Planning: Expect the Unexpected

by Julian Ryall

Recognised as among the best in the world for the services and skills they can provide, UK firms that specialise in business continuity planning (BCP) took the opportunity in March to demonstrate their abilities at the British Embassy Tokyo during a day-long symposium—the first of its kind in Japan.

»

People

Doreen Simmons

by Gavin Blair

“I never intended to get this busy, it just seemed to happen. I’ve got four main jobs at the moment”, said Doreen Simmons, who turned 80 in May but shows no sign of slowing down after 38 years in Japan.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

This month: Blossoms and Shadows, and Source: The Inner Path of Knowledge Creation

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

The “Other” London, Trend towards Bland Flavours, Pre-Consumption Tax Rise Sales Rush?, How to Spend My Summer Bonus, It’s the Thought That Counts

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Shoko Nakamura

Arts events compiled by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

June 2012

Cover Story

Maya Nakanishi

by Julian Ryall

Maya Nakanishi has never let anything get in her way. One of the top-ranked soft tennis players when she was a student in Oita Prefecture, she lost her right leg in an industrial accident at the age of 21—and her first emotion after the operation was “annoyance” at not being able to get out of bed immediately.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Find Their Comfort Zone

by Dr Greg Story

Red: “Time is money”. “No excuses, just get on with it”.

Blue: “Show me the big picture”. “Let’s do it. Where we are going will be incredible”.

Green: “Let’s have a cup of tea and get to know each other”. “How will everyone feel about this?”

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Tokyo Sky Tree

by Michiaki Tanaka

Born and raised in Tokyo, I have seen many changes made to this high-tech city over the past 40 years. I remember, at the age of five, being surprised on my first visit to the Tokyo Tower observatory, and looking down on the sprawling metropolis; the people below looked like ants and the cars like grains of rice.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

London's "Austerity Games"

by Megan Waters

As the host of two previous Olympics—in 1908 and 1948—London is the only city to hold one of the world’s greatest events three times. With the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games set to start on 27 July, there hasn’t been as much excitement in the London air since 1948—the last time the country stared austerity in the face.

»

Food

Had Enough Vindaloo?

by Julian Ryall

Marcus Wareing is on a campaign to convince diners that British cuisine can be world-class and consists of more than roast beef and fish and chips, but he was also deeply impressed by the dishes that are being served by some of Japan’s top restaurants.

»

Healthcare

Healthcare's "New Market"

by Julian Ryall

Shift to preventive medicine clears more drugs and medical devices.

»

BCCJ Event

Sir John Major

by Custom Media

The world is changing more rapidly than ever and new challenges are constantly being thrown up, but Japan will thrive if it is able to regain some of its economic self-confidence of years gone by, Sir John Major KG, CH told a BCCJ luncheon on 8 May.

»

Publicity

Improving the Quality of Life for Acne Sufferers in Japan

by Custom Media

According to an acne-perception study by prominent US psychiatrist Dr Eva Ritvo, teenagers and adults have a negative perception of teens with acne, seeing them as generally shy, less socially active, more likely to be bullied, and less successful at finding a job.

»

Publicity

Times are Changing

by David Williams

In The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, by Douglas Adams, the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe and everything was 42. Alarmingly, it is also the answer to the question “How long have I been teaching?” The 1970s was when it all began: the start of a decade of strikes by postal workers, miners and dustmen, ending in the winter of discontent.

»

Industry

Underneath the Hospital Gown

by Masayuki Yonemura

Japan’s sophisticated social insurance system offers free access to healthcare, allowing people to visit the doctor for any condition. Most companies offer annual medical checks to employees, creating a further opportunity for patients to be aware of their condition, and perhaps, discover some unwanted truths.

»

Innovation

What's Your Point?

by Custom Media

On the water, Richard Parslow and Marcus Baur were fierce rivals. Baur, a double Olympian, was one of the top sailors in the German team, while Parslow was coach of the British squad. In numerous championship regattas around the world, they asked and gave no quarter.

»

Industry

Fighting Rare Illnesses and Disorders

by Phillipe Fauchet

Pharmaceutical makers are in an excellent position to do a lot of good—and, I would argue, have something of a duty to do so—above and beyond merely developing and providing medicines that are going to cure illnesses and give people longer, happier and more productive lives.

»

Industry

Hiring the Right Medical Affairs Team

by James Oakes

Firms recognise the value of hiring MD- or PhD-qualified people, but where can they find the right talent?

»

Communications

Oh, No. I'm Losing it!

by Anne Good

Since more than one-third of our lives is spent at work associating with people with whom we have not necessarily chosen to be—and working under the pressure of high demands and competition—it’s no small wonder that disagreements arise and resentments fester and build, day after day.

»

Publicity

The 12th National Consumer Value Research Survey

by Custom Media

I&S BBDO conducted its 12th National Consumer Value Research (CoVaR®) survey in May 2012. The survey targeted 2,500 men and women nationwide aged between 18 and 69.

»

Lifestyle

The Quiet Briton

by Ian de Stains OBE

The Harley-Davidson brand invokes certain images: a tough, stylish, outdoor US brand. So it comes as a slight surprise to discover that the man charged with heading the firm’s Japan operation is a quietly spoken, somewhat intellectual Briton.

»

People

Doctor to the Stars

by Henry Scott Stokes

I went to see a remarkable man the other day. His name is Dr Eugene Aksenoff, and he is a White Russian by ancestry. That is to say, this medical doctor is driven by passions the like of which rarely get into a slowcoach like me.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Stick Your Job!, Foreign Visitors Return, Exchange Rate Blues, Olympics Survey, Vanishing Bookstores

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

Fashion and consumption feature in our book reviews this month.

»

Exhibition

"Travelling Around the World in Sand: The United Kingdom"

by Custom Media

The museum’s first exhibition honours several major UK events this year

»

Feature Article

Arts Events

by Shoko Nakamura

Arts events compiled by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

May 2012

Cover Story

Return Trip to Tower Bridge

by Julian Ryall

As she carefully lays out all the food, clothing and paraphernalia required to take on the next leg of this two-and-a-half-year odyssey—the 4,500 nautical-mile crossing of the North Pacific in a 7-metre boat called Gulliver—she makes her confession.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Stop Wasting Money on Training

by Dr Greg Story

Training firms themselves are probably the most savage critics of training when it is done poorly. There are cases in which the curriculum is flimsy, faddish or brief. Trainers, too, can be disasters—unskilled, inflexible or simply incompetent.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Charcoal: Much More than Barbeque Fuel

by Nicole Daniells

When you think of charcoal, long summer evenings immediately spring to mind, with the smell of sizzling meat or seafood permeating the air. Few people remember, however, that charcoal is so much more than just fuel.

»

Foreword

The Diamond Jubilee

by Sir David Warren KCMG

Her Majesty came to the throne on 6 February 1952, and her coronation took place on 2 June 1953. Hers is the second-longest reign in British history, after that of Queen Victoria, from 1837 until 1901. There will be an extended bank holiday weekend of celebrations from Saturday 2 June to Tuesday 5 June, with activities throughout the UK, across the Commonwealth and beyond.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Over the past half decade, e-commerce transactions in Japan doubled, reaching a total value of ¥7.8trn in 2010. Following the 11 March, 2011 earthquake and tsunami, disaster-related products enjoyed particularly high demand, with sales via internet service firm Rakuten alone posting a six-fold rise between March and August.

»

Defence

Sweet Deal or Arms Race?

by Julian Ryall

The Joint Statement on the UK/Japan Defence relationship that was agreed during Prime Minister David Cameron’s visit to Tokyo in April has the potential to forge even closer links between Japan and the UK, and generate millions of pounds’ worth of new contracts for British firms, although officials are keen to emphasise that the future growth of exchanges in the defence sphere will be “evolutionary rather than revolutionary”.

»

Music

Strictly Singing—for Charity

by Yuuichiro Nakajima

Singing, to some of us, is a pursuit closely associated with showers and karaoke bars. To others, it is a distant memory from their youth, days of Sunday school and campfires. Then there are those who sing along to their favourite music in their head, lest they embarrass themselves or others should they let rip.

»

Investment

Who is a Professional Investor in Japan?

by Yasuyuki Takayama

In many jurisdictions, the financial regulations that apply to transactions involving professional investors tend to be more moderate than those applying to transactions not involving professional investors. This is also true in Japan.

»

Entrepreneur

Life in the Slow Lane

by Julian Ryall

It’s a long way from the bright lights of Tokyo, but the Britons who are making their mark on the business community in Japan’s most southerly prefecture are adamant that they would not swap their beaches, balmy air and bougainvillea for all the neon in Shibuya.

»

Entrepreneur

Theodore Jennings

by Custom Media

Award-winning outdoor living designer produces elegant energy saving solutions for home and office balconies.

»

Industry

Mergers & Acquisitions

by Thomas J Nevins

In this article, I cannot help you very much. That said, in my 2004 book, Japan True or False—People Problems, Costs, Restructuring, chapters one, four and five have much useful information on mergers and acquisitions.

»

Industry

Feng Shui for Cynics

by Michiaki Tanaka

According to consultant and representative of World of Feng Shui Japan HQ, whether people believe feng shui actually influences events or is superstitious nonsense, even cynics cannot deny its real benefits in the office.

»

Industry

Efficiency, Costs, Risk

by Craig Harrison

With ongoing uncertainty about the economic outlook and the strength of recovery, businesses across all sectors continue to seek ways of improving efficiency and cutting costs.

»

Investment

Buying Real Estate in Japan

by Hiroyuki Isobe

Japan was the world’s second-largest economy for more than 40 years, until it was overtaken by China in 2010. After the early 1990s, Japan experienced what some have called a lost decade, during which time the economy stagnated and growth was substantially lower than before.

»

Tribute

Minoru Mori

by Henry Scott Stokes

With the sad departure of Minoru Mori KBE we have lost one of the most mordant observers of the contemporary scene in Tokyo and Shanghai.

»

Politics

Joint Statement by the Prime Ministers of the UK and Japan

by Custom Media

As the Prime Ministers of Japan and the UK, we are committed to promoting global prosperity and security, based on the shared values of democracy, the rule of law, human rights and the market economy. We also have a shared responsibility to meet the global challenges of the 21st century.

»

Interview

Robert Walters

by Julian Ryall

The specialist recruitment firm that Robert Walters set up in 1985 today has 48 offices in 23 countries and plans to start operations in Munich and Rio de Janeiro in the near future.

»

Education

Selecting the Right University

by Matt Lennon

Surrounded by fellow students of many different nationalities, heading off to universities in every country imaginable, the options for students at international schools can seem endless.

»

Tax

UK is "Open for Business"

by Kingsley Kemish

On 21 March, the House of Commons was presented with the government’s budget proposals. They continued the clear message that Britain is open for business.

»

Publicity

A World of Workspaces

by Custom Media

As the largest global provider of flexible workspaces, Regus plc each year helps more than 1mn customers focus on their business, rather than the location from which they manage it.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

This month: Mori Building: The Making of Vertical Garden Cities and March Was Made of Yarn: Reflections on the Japanese Earthquake, Tsunami, and Nuclear Meltdown.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Shoko Nakamura

Arts events compiled by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

April 2012

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Eccentric Britons Mark Diamond Jubilee

by Megan Waters

As the UK gears up for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations feting the queen’s amazing 60-year reign, the public—in true eccentric British style—will mark the June occasion in some creative ways, featuring whisky, airplanes, a miniature royal family . . . and, er, toast!

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Delegate or Die!

by Dr Greg Story

Managers and leaders already know that you have to get the right people on the bus and in the right seats. They also know that seat allocation and task alignment must be correctly balanced. High-cost resources should be doing high value tasks and vice versa.

»

Economy

Bets on for Legal Casinos

by Julian Ryall

At a packed press conference in Miyazaki on 3 April, Hajime Satomi, chairman and president of Sega Sammy Holdings Inc., added his considerable weight to a debate that has been bubbling for more than a decade.

»

BCCJ Event

Iberian Feast of Food and Wine

by Julian Ryall

Restaurant Davis plays host to Berry Bros. & Rudd wine guru for evening of excellence.

»

Cover Story

Oldest Rocker in Town

by Custom Media

As they stomp noisily into their fifth decade of making punk rock music, the U.K. Subs are also doing their part to assist the people of north-east Japan affected by last year’s disasters with the first date of their nationwide tour being staged in Sendai.

»

Design

Classic Meets Contemporary

by Ian de Stains OBE

The Tokyo office of advertising agency I&S BBDO recently won a Best of Show Design Lotus Award at Adfest in Pattaya, Thailand, with a creation for food retailer Umino Seaweed.

»

Creative

A Novel Idea

by Julian Ryall

The only professional British manga writer based in Japan has launched Kickstarter campaign to drum up pledges for a new graphic novel that will tell the tale of US left-wing activist, economist, speaker and writer Michael Albert and have an introduction by Noam Chomsky.

»

Interview

Donald Keene

by Henry Scott Stokes

An exclusive interview with Japanese literature expert, Donald Keene, since becoming citizen of Japan at age 89.

»

Sport

Rugby Sevens Returns to Tokyo

by Rich Freeman

World-class sevens returned to Tokyo on 31 March and 1 April, when the International Rugby Board (IRB) brought Round 7 of the Sevens World Series to Japan.

»

NPO

Beware the "Burma Rush"

by Jane Best MBE

Much has been made in recent weeks of apparent progress in the campaign for democracy and human rights in Burma (Myanmar), but aid organisations warn that international pressure on the regime must not let up.

»

Opinion

Taking Care of Stakeholders

by James Weeks

When all is said and done, a firm survives and prospers only with the consent of key stakeholders.

»

Visiting Japan

High Tea—at 30,000 Feet

by Julian Ryall

There is nothing more quintessentially English than afternoon tea—and Japanese people flying with Virgin Atlantic Airways are lapping up the new service.

»

Travel

Wish you were here!

by Custom Media

Volunteers tell world Japan is open again for tourism.

»

Opinion

A "Young" Nation

by Thomas J Nevins

In March I visited Goa, in western India, for a biannual global partners’ meeting of Glasford International, a partnership of independent, retained executive search firms with offices in some 40 countries, and represented in Japan by TMT Inc.

»

Nuclear

N-Power Splits EU

by Custom Media

The impact of the disaster at the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant on the rest of the world’s acceptance of atomic energy will be relatively brief and the issue will be “off the agenda” in as little as eight years, according to Professor David Cope, director of the Houses of Parliament’s Office of Science and Technology.

»

Olympics

Hiroshi Hoketsu

by Custom Media

The first time 71-year-old Hiroshi Hoketsu competed in an Olympic Games, most of the other athletes who will be at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games had not even been born.

»

Motors

Safety First

by Julian Ryall

For cars coming out of the Asia-Pacific region, the task of ensuring that they meet safety requirements falls to Michael Mulvaney and his team of 10 at the VCA offices in Nagoya.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

Ian de Stains reviews Nicholas Comfort’s “Surrender: How British Industry Gave Up the Ghost 1952-2012″ and Tony Banks’ “My War and After”

»

Industry

Why Software Projects Fail

by Amit Thakur

Information technology (IT) project implementations are complex anywhere, but even more so in Japan given its management style and project team structures.

»

Arts & Culture

Arts Events

by Shoko Nakamura

Arts events compiled by Shoko Nakamura

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed In The Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

To reduce fixed costs, more firms have been relocating away from Tokyo’ s high-rent areas by delegating their back-office functions such as accounting, administration, personnel, procurements, etc., to outside the metropolitan area, or in some cases outside Japan.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

March 2012

Cover Story

Lord of the Rings

by Isabel Reynolds

Lord Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games organising committee, offered Tokyo some advice on how to bid successfully for the 2020 event: focus on the why, not the how. Coe’s moving 2005 speech, about how the Olympics inspired his own sporting career, is often credited for tipping the balance in favour of the UK capital’s bid to host the games.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Cast-Iron Cookware Makes Comeback

by Nicole Daniells

The kitchen might not seem the most obvious place to find cast iron straight from the foundry, but in ecological circles traditionally made pots, pans and kettles are making a huge comeback.

»

E-BULLETIN EXCLUSIVE

Will We Ever Learn?

by Dr Greg Story

Corporate learning isn’t working. Heroically, time and treasure are being used by leaders at firms to improve staff performance. Inherent in that goal is that we, as recipients, learn something new or re-learn what we supposedly should know already.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed In The Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

Catching on, according to the Sankei Shimbun (26 February), is the idea of “collaboration rooms”, an arrangement according to which hotels tie up with manufacturers and direct-marking businesses to promote their products.

»

Disaster Aftermath

3/11: Rebuilding Japan

by Julian Ryall

The response to the disasters of March 2011 from all sectors of the British community in Japan—corporate, charitable and individual—has been phenomenal. “We don’t just want to give communities money; we want to get them going again.”

»

Publicity

How GSK Helped People in Tohoku

by Custom Media

Although its Tokyo headquarters sustained only minor damage from the earthquake and tsunami of 11 March 2011, GSK quickly realised that many others were considerably less fortunate. After first confirming that all employees were safe and determining the amount of damage, the focus turned to helping those most in need.

»

BCCJ Event

Special 51 Night: Road to Recovery

by Custom Media

The UK community’s compassion, caring and commitment to the people of north-east Japan were underlined at the unprecedented “Special 51 Night: Road to Recovery” event at the British Embassy Tokyo on 8 March, with more than 200 people gathering to mark almost exactly one year since the Great East Japan Earthquake.

»

UKTI

Market Entry

by Custom Media

A small firm based in Cheltenham is thriving proof that Japan’s electronics giants do not have the monopoly on cutting-edge technology.

»

Disaster Aftermath

Business Continuity Planning

by Julian Ryall

It’s only when disaster strikes and technology fails—such as after the 11 March earthquake and tsunami last year—that we realise how dependent we are on technology.

»

Opinion

A Case for Internships

by Kwame Sarpong

During my rewarding internship with Refugees International Japan (RIJ), I had a valuable opportunity to closely observe something that has been in the news a lot recently: how organisations—especially NGOs—should achieve accountability.

»

Opinion

Taking Care of Crises

by Dan Underwood

“Crisis” is a word firms hate and consultants love. A crisis to a firm’s board usually means share price freefall and heads rolling. To a consultant, it’s more likely to signal exciting work and big fees from clients who aren’t in a position to argue.

»

Interview

Crawford Gillies

by Custom Media

Appointed chairman of Scottish Enterprise/Scottish Development International (SDI) in 2009, Crawford Gillies is also chairman of Control Risks Group Holdings Ltd and a non-executive director of Standard Life plc.

»

Motors

New Jeeps for New Japan

by Julian Ryall

The philosophy was to take the road less travelled. Those roads can be difficult to find in Japan, which is far better known for elevated motorways and traffic-cluttered back streets. But the vehicle that emerged from the toughest possible proving ground —war-torn Europe of the 1940s—has a spirit that can also be seen in its owners.

»

Review

2012 Jeep Compass

by Simon Farrell

Launched here in March this year, the nifty and responsive Compass is a functional wagon with light and consistent steering, clear views all round, and very low noise.

»

People

Baptism by Fire

by Julian Ryall

By now, Victoria Yoshimura expected to have a successful career in public relations or marketing for a multinational in London.

»

Arts & Culture

Rock Challenge Japan

by Custom Media

The Rock Challenge was marked its fifth year in Japan, although the event had been put off from November because of the lingering impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

»

Investment

The New Tokyo Pro-Bond Market

by Chihiro Ashizawa

The TOKYO PRO-BOND Market, a debt-securities exchange market for professional investors, was set up in May 2011 by Tokyo AIM (Alternative Investment Market), Inc.

»

Industry

Banks in Japan Continue to Hire

by Christine Wright

Japan’s banking sector is a standout in Asia, as banks continue to hire people with specialist skills and vacancy activity grows. While this activity has not returned to levels predating the global financial crisis, it shows, nevertheless, that the impact of current global economic conditions has not been as intense in Japan as in some of its Asian neighbours.

»

Industry

The New Rules of Money

by Adrian Rowles

Planning your finances and understanding how to protect and build your wealth requires professional advice. If you haven’t started planning yet, now is the time to start.

»

Sports

Head and Shoulders

by Julian Ryall

Japan may not have been designed for someone who stands 1.9m tall and weighs nearly 18 stone (114kg), but James Haskell says he is fitting in just fine.

»

Exhibition

Postcards to and from Japan

by Kate Thomson

When a postcard arrived for a colleague from their parents after the Tohoku Disaster in 2011, the author found new hope that all was not lost.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

This month: Viewed Sideways and Toshioita neko tono kurashikata

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』VOLUME 3 / ISSUE 3のまとめ

by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

February 2012

Cover Story

Bittersweet

by Julian Ryall

Wasabi, yuzu, black vinegar, nettles and seaweed might seem unlikely ingredients for a British chocolatier building a growing reputation in London, but a touch of inspiration from his Japanese wife is helping keep William Curley’s boutique stores in Belgravia and Richmond very busy. The products are proving so successful that a selection of William and Suzue Curley’s creations will soon be available at Takashimaya department stores for the first time.

»

Japanese Media

What You Missed in the Japanese Press

by Mark Schreiber

In its predictions for 2012, the magazine Nikkei Trendy (December) notes that Japan’s music fans are expected to mark the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ cutting their first single. “Love Me Do/P.S. I Love You” was recorded in June 1962 and released in the following October.

»

FDI

Investing in the Best

by Julian Ryall

From Mr. Men to contact lenses, aircraft-leasing, green energy, technology, cars and parts, Japanese corporations are stepping up their deals in Britain. That has, in part, been encouraged by the strength of the yen, but long-standing ties between the two tea-drinking island nations that have for generations stressed their similarities are also convincing more Japanese firms that the UK is the place they need to be.

»

Awards

Former BCCJ President Appointed OBE

by Custom Media

Andy Mankiewicz, BCCJ president for three years until April 2010, has been appointed OBE for his services to British business in Japan. The award had been announced in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List on 11 June 2011, and the investiture was held on 14 December 2011 at Buckingham Palace.

»

BCCJ Event

Dateline: Tohoku

by Julian Ryall

The world came to Japan’s assistance in the immediate aftermath of the disasters that devastated much of the north-east in March last year but, nearly 12 months on, the people of those coastal communities need a helping hand that is slightly different, according to those taking part in the BCCJ’s “Dateline: Tohoku” panel discussion.

»

Publicity

JFTC 2011 Essay Competition

by Custom Media

Essayists from Jamaica and the Philippines fought off entrants from 43 countries around the world to win the top awards in the Japan Foreign Trade Council, Inc.’s, 2011 Essay Competition and accepted their prizes in a ceremony at the Hotel New Otani in Tokyo on 6 January.

»

UKTI

Market Entry: Case Study

by Julian Ryall

Japan’s pharmaceuticals market is the second-largest in the world in terms of prescription drug sales; it is home to several major pharmaceutical firms with affiliate operations in Europe and the US, as well as a large number of medium-sized and smaller firms that are either focused on the Japanese market, or looking to expand their businesses into Western markets.

»

Review

Jeep: Mean and Green

by Julian Ryall

From the driver’s seat of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara, I have risen above the fray. Instead of exchanging looks with taxi drivers at sedan height, I am admiring the view over their roofs and getting a new angle on Tokyo. And, on this city’s congested streets, it’s a sensation that I could get used to.

»

Market Entry

JMEC’s Big Day

by Robert Gilhooly

You could cut the atmosphere with a knife. Perched on the edge of their seats, the competition participants are on tenterhooks; the proverbial envelope is ready to be opened. You can almost hear the roll of a drum and the voice over the loudspeaker announce: “And the winner is …”

»

Travel

British Airways Committed to Japan

by Julian Ryall

When British Airways (BA) started its services out of Tokyo (Haneda) International Airport on 19 February last year, it had no inkling of the tragic events that were about to engulf Japan. The new route had to be suspended, but it’s now up and running again, and there was never any question of Britain’s flag carrier reconsidering its commitment to this market.

»

Opinion

Corporate Governance

by Christina Ahmadjian

Corporate governance reform has been a hotly debated topic in Japan for more than 15 years. In 1997, Sony Corporation radically reformed its board of directors and replaced insiders with independent non-executives.

»

Education

Masters of the Future

by Julian Ryall

This century has been predicted as the era in which Asia emerges from the shadow of Europe and the US to become the driver of global growth. It is expected that the changes taking place in Asian regional powers, such as Japan, China and India, as well as throughout South-East Asia—politically, socially and, most importantly, economically—will shape the future of the world.

»

Publicity

The British School in Tokyo Celebrates Success

by David Williams

At the British School in Tokyo (BST), we love to celebrate success and it is usually our students who do so well. This time, however, we are celebrating success as a whole school community after a team of independent inspectors confirmed that we are an “excellent” education facility, the highest mark possible.

»

Industry

What Are Teachers Talking About?

by Chris Nicholls

It’s great when your child comes home and shows you the big capital “A” his or her teacher has written on that last piece of homework. You’re a successful parent. The child has been successful. Oxford … Harvard … medical school … law school … the world is opening up before you both. But what actually constitutes an A?

»

Publicity

Yokohama International School

by James MacDonald

Founded in 1924, the Yokohama International School (YIS) has a pioneering spirit and rich history—being the world’s second oldest establishment with “international school” in its name.

»

Management

Smoke and Mirrors

by Dr Greg Story

“I don’t understand!” Well in Japan, particularly, that statement can be quite a Pandora’s Box—or treasure trove, depending on your point of view. Employees who respond in this way may have a number of subterranean issues bubbling away. As managers, our ability to plumb the depths of what they are saying is integral to success.

»

Sport

Gentleman’s Game Played by Ladies

by Julian Ryall

Arsenal Ladies had two wins and one draw on their three-match tour of Japan in late November. But, for last season’s treble-winning team, just as important as the results was the chance to express their support for, and solidarity with, the people of the Tohoku region.

»

Hospitality

Marketing a Mountain Village

by Julian Ryall

Jason Holt may be building a business, but he says that building a community is his overriding aim. President of Tokyo-based EastEdge Partners, Inc., Holt spends as much time as possible in his adopted hometown of Nozawa Onsen, and he hopes the five properties the firm has across Nagano Prefecture—serviced apartments, hotels and, most recently, a completely refurbished ryokan—will revitalise the village and the region.

»

Property

Real Estate: Residents and firms want safety and value

by Julian Ryall

The past 12 months has been a testing time for the property industry—in both its commercial and residential sectors—but the general sense is that Japan is just too big and important a market for the downturn to last for long, although it may change its form.

»

Exhibition

Yayoi Kusama in London

by Custom Media

Kusama’s life has taken her from rural Japan to the New York art scene and contemporary Tokyo, and throughout her career she has continuously innovated and re-invented her style.

»

Books

Beyond the Kama Sutra

by Ian de Stains OBE

Nippon Shunga Hyakka – Volumes 1 and 2
(Encyclopedia of Japanese Erotic Art: Shunga)

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 3 / Issue 2のまとめ

by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

January 2012

Cover Story

DISASTER AFTERMATH

by Julian Ryall

Red tape and rigid adherence to regulations stopped a number of foreign firms from providing help and specialist expertise in the immediate aftermath of the 11 March disasters in north-east Japan, while other firms say their efforts to render assistance to the homeless and destitute were frustrated because the markets here are effectively closed to outsiders.

»

Feature Article

New Year Gongs for UK Envoy and Drivers

by Julian Ryall

Ambassador David Warren receives a KCMG (Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George) for displaying exceptional qualities of leadership and empathy through the immediate aftermath of the massive earthquake in northern Japan which caused a tsunami and a nuclear disaster at Fukushima, during which the British Embassy Tokyo remained open and fully operational.

»

Awards

Japan Decorates Two Brits

by Julian Ryall

Two people from Britain have received decorations from the Japanese government for their contributions to bringing the nations closer together.

»

Environment

OFF THE MENU

by Julian Ryall

Japan is likely to abandon its whaling operations in the Southern Ocean within three years, due to economic reality and pressure—with Britain playing an important role— by environmental groups and governments around the world. The term Southern Ocean, created in 2000 by the International Hydrographic Organization, is the fifth and newest world ocean comprising the southern parts of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans to completely surround Antarctica.

»

Exhibition

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD SHOES 1973–2012

by Custom Media

The grand dame of avant garde, Vivienne Westwood, is celebrating 40 years in the business with a global exhibition of her iconic footwear. It was featured at Omotesando Hills in December and early January, following stops in London, Moscow, Beirut and Shanghai.

»

Creative

The Classroom Revolution

by Julian Ryall

Recognised as being among the best in the world, British universities specialising in the creative arts are being sought out by Japanese firms that are looking to add to their corporate profiles a new way of thinking and interacting with their clients.

»

Energy

Japan Opens to Investment in Renewable Energy

by Kenji Miyagawa and Andrew OShea

In July this year, when the Act on Special Measures concerning the Procurement of Renewable Energy by Operators of Electric Utilities (the Renewables Act) goes into force, the Japanese government will introduce a feed-in tariff (FiT) to encourage the use of renewable energy nationwide.

»

Business Risk

UK Bribery Act

by Philippa Symington

The first case tried under the UK Bribery Act was relatively minor: last November, an administrative clerk was found guilty of taking a bribe to clear convictions of speeding motorists from an English court database.

»

Embassy

Nuclear: Old and New

by Robert Gilhooly

Alack of fundamental understanding and the capacity to accurately measure small amounts of radioactive components are at the heart of people’s fears concerning nuclear energy. This was an observation made by Dr Keith Franklin of the UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) during a presentation made to BCCJ members at the ambassador’s residence in the British Embassy Tokyo compound on 22 November.

»

Charity

Oxfam Opens in Japan

by Julian Ryall

Astaple of high streets the length and breadth of Britain, charity shops are conspicuous by their absence in Japan. But nearly 70 years after the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief was set up, Oxfam Japan has opened its first two shops in Tokyo.

»

Fundraising

25th Christmas Cracker Raises Record Amount

by Custom Media

Over the years, BCCJ members and others in the wider Anglo-Japanese community have come to anticipate with pleasure an annual event that, for many people, marks the start of the winter holiday season.

»

Charity

UK Stars Support Tokyo Charity

by Custom Media

One of Japan’s leading cancer charities has launched a fundraising album featuring British artists Sir Tim Rice, Maxi Priest and Julian Lennon, together with other global stars. The brainchild of Tyler Foundation for Childhood Cancer founders Mark Ferris and Kim Forsythe, “Shine On! Songs Volume One” also stars Alan Menken, Amber Lily, Monday Michiru, Tin Cup Gypsy and Wendy Parr, among others.

»

Industry

Corporate Compliance: Protection from the Inside

by Jack Byrd

Legal compliance in the corporate world is, in some ways, similar to earthquake preparedness in the layman’s world. On 11 March 2011, few people had an earthquake kit prepared. On 12 March, most everyone had their earthquake kit and you could see the sidewalks filled with people wearing hardhats. Such is human behaviour. We reach our most heightened state of preparedness after a crisis takes place.

»

Entertainment

TV ADDICTS

by Julian Ryall

Ricky Gervais, Terry Pratchett and David Jason are just a fraction of the British entertainment scene’s stars who, in late October, were up for grabs at the trade show that ran in conjunction with the Tokyo International Film Festival, in which the UK was a first-time participant.

»

Sports

Wakako Tsuchida

by Julian Ryall

Four years after her last Paralympic dream ended in a six-person crash on the final straight in Beijing—and put Wakako Tsuchida in hospital for two months—the world number-one is determined to take the gold medal at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

»

Sport

Shingo Kunieda

by Julian Ryall

With a slight squeak of rubber on the surface of the court, Shingo Kunieda changes direction and stretches out his racket to meet the ball. In one fluid motion, it returns over the net and lands unerringly within the white lines.

»

Sport

Howzat? New Home for Noble Game

by Robert Gilhooly

At a council meeting in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture, on 6 December, the executive committee discussed an item more commonly associated with Commonwealth nations—promoting the “noble game” of cricket. A curious entry, this may seem, but it’s at the heart of an ambitious plan to make Sano the centre of cricket in Japan. Days later, the city unveiled a cricket supporters’ club with the catchphrase “Sano, Home of Cricket”.

»

Music

Secrets of the Stars

by Julian Ryall

After 20 years of interviewing the good, bad and ugly from the world of rock and roll, Guy Perryman has plenty of anecdotes to tell about the stars, from those whose laid-back approach to a schedule drives their Japanese handlers berserk to others whose egos have trouble fitting through the door with them.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Ian de Stains OBE

There is nothing inherently amusing about the idea of battle. Indeed, the very thought of writing a book that seeks to find humour in the fact that men go to war and kill and wound each other is, on the face of it, extremely distasteful.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 3 / Issue 1のまとめ

by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

December 2011

Cover Story

Who Guards the Guards?

by Julian Ryall

Michael Woodford is getting all the plaudits for uncovering shady deals to allegedly cover up $1.5bn in investment losses at Olympus Corp., but the British former chief executive of the firm emphasised that credit for the scandal being uncovered belongs elsewhere.

»

Entertainment

EIGHTH BRITISH MUSIC MISSION TO JAPAN

by Julian Ryall

From Clapton to The Bongolian, Muse, The Rolling Stones, Beverley Moore, Neon Plastix and even Susan Boyle, British music rocks.

»

Communications

Power of PR

by James Weeks

With a falling population and fading growth opportunities at home, many Japanese firms will have to expand operations abroad to prosper in the long term.

»

Education

What Children of the Future Need from Schools

by Kirsten O Connor

How are schools preparing children for the future—when change will be rapid and technological innovation even more so? What jobs will exist?

»

Science

Chemistry between Two Countries

by Julian Ryall

The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) opened an office in Ochanomizu, Tokyo on 1 November, with Chief Executive Dr Robert Parker using the occasion to call on the British government to follow in the steps of Japan by increasing spending on the sciences to drive economic growth.

»

Review

DYSON HOT+COOL AM04

by Shoko Nakamura

The first thing that struck me about the Dyson hot+cool AM04, which recently hit the Japan market, is its trendy design—just like the firm’s other fans (all with Air Multiplier technology) and its popular line of stylish vacuum cleaners.

»

Banking

Extra Red Tape

by Raymond Gasu

If you’ve tried to open a yen corporate bank account for a newly registered entity this year, you may have realised that the process takes longer and has become more bureaucratic, with obligations harder to meet for some firms.

»

Opinion

Why I’m Staying in Japan

by Thomas J Nevins

When firms search for the right country in which to invest, many considerations come to the fore: corporate governance, logistics, legal issues, IP protection, security, education, available skills, politics and social stability.

»

Entrepreneur

SECRETS OF A SERIAL PUB OWNER

by Julian Ryall

The secret of a great bar or restaurant—to which people want to return time and time again—according to John Watkins, is creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, providing a wide selection of reasonably priced food and drinks, and leaving the music selection to the younger members of staff.

»

Fashion

More than a Mission

by Julian Ryall

The Japanese fashion market has challenges and quirks, but it is one place in which British firms taking part in the recent UK Trade & Investment mission here most definitely want to be.

»

Sports

Cycling Challenges Golf’s Old Guard

by Julian Ryall

After battling back from an injury that could have completely derailed his road-race cycling ambitions, James Machin is keen to develop the sport here in Japan even further.

»

Exhibition

Forty Years of Queen

by Shoko Nakamura

“Queen Forever”, organised by Universal Music, was held at Tokyo Tower from 23 November to 11 December.

»

Industry

How to Make Your Projects Work in Japan

by Tomoyuki Kogure

Often it is said that global project management is a difficult task, “global” here meaning the project membership is cross-national, which requires a high level of internal collaboration.

»

Arts & Culture

Night at the Opera

by Ian de Stains OBE

The 1960s saw the gradual reemergence of Japan onto the world stage as post-war efforts to rebuild the nation increasingly focused attention on metropolitan Tokyo.

»

Market Entry

Market Access and More

by Julian Ryall

He says it with a twinkle in his eye, so you know that Intralink is not seriously looking at opening an office in Pyongyang in the immediate future.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 12のまとめ

by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

November 2011

Publicity

"What we Learn with Pleasure we Never Forget" — Alfred Mercier

by David Williams

At the British School in Tokyo (BST), we pride ourselves on ensuring that our students leave us as well-rounded individuals, fully equipped for the challenges of the future in this fast-changing world. Academic success is one way in which we prepare our students and I am hugely proud of our GCSE and AS results this year.

»

Cover Story

BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS 2011

by Julian Ryall

The fourth British Business Awards (BBA) attracted a record number of entrants across the five categories, with the glittering presentation ceremony on 4 November that raised about ¥3.2mn to support business regeneration and capacity-building in Tohoku.

»

Interview

LORD GREEN Minister of State for Trade and Investment

by Julian Ryall

Lord Green of Hurstpierpoint, appointed minister of state for trade and investment in January, has been a frequent visitor to Japan for many years. He was last here in late October for a series of meetings, including ones with Yukio Edano, his new counterpart at the Ministry of Trade, Economy and Industry.

»

Publicity

Australia Still Welcomes Japanese Investment into Increasingly Crowded Resources Sector

by Custom Media

New investors in Australia’s resource assets are often in the news nowadays, but the headlines often overlook the long history of successful Japanese investment in the country and the Japanese have not been forgotten.

»

Business Risk

Fishing for Fraud in the Supply Line

by Stuart Witchell

While the triple disaster in March this year severely threatened—and even crippled—some supply chains in Japan, it is all too often that international firms remain unaware of a greater and more consistent threat to their supply chains, namely, fraud.

»

Publicity

From Japan to the World

by Custom Media

OOIL (Orient Overseas International Limited) is one of the largest integrated global container transportation, logistics and terminal firms.

With a strong presence in Japan for many years serving brands such as Toyota, Canon and other well-known global firms, our huge network covers not just Asia, but also Europe, North America and Australia where our clients include Laura Ashley, Walt Disney World and Wal-Mart.

»

Environment

When “Cure” is Worse than Disease

by Julian Ryall

Fears concerning radioactivity released from the Fukushima Dai-Ichi Nuclear Power Plant since the 11 March triple disasters have been blown out of all proportion, according to a leading British professor of physics. He has also said that ordering thousands of people to evacuate their communities will cause far more serious physical and mental damage to local residents than might result from leaks of the plant’s radioactive matter.

»

Technology

London’s Silicon Valley

by Julian Ryall

Tech City is a cluster of technology, digital and creative firms that have congregated in the Shoreditch and Old Street districts of east London. They aim to attract more like-minded businesses—including Japanese firms that are looking to enter, or expand their presence in, the UK and Continental European markets.

»

Industry

Changing Landscape of SCM Recruitment

by Richard King

As competitive pressures increase and supply chains become increasingly global and complex, efficient and proactive supply-chain management has been transformed from an operations and back-office concern to a factor critical to business success. Throughout 2011, the logistics industry in Japan has been impacted by the continued emergence of the Asian region as a key growth area, as well as the disasters that occurred earlier in the year.

»

Industry

Minimising Operating Risk

by Hideya Komori

Over the past 10 years, open account trading has become the standard approach taken by exporters wishing to maintain a competitive position vis-à-vis importers. Moreover, since this form of trading—which helps firms better manage their cash flow while also providing credit protection—now accounts for more than 85% of cross-border trade transactions, the letter of credit has become a niche product.

»

Exhibition

World-Famous Wax Figures

by Custom Media

Odaiba Decks is currently hosting an exhibition of 20 astonishingly lifelike, full-scale wax replicas of famous people on loan from the world-famous Madame Tussauds collection.

»

Training

Bird Man v Bureaucrats

by Justin McCurry

Gary Dyer has a chance encounter with one of Japan’s leading botanists to thank for his current job as a birdkeeper at Kobe Kachoen, a popular bird and flower park located on the city’s Port Island.

»

Creative

Gardening World Cup

by Julian Ryall

British designers performed well at the Gardening World Cup in October, staged at the Huis Ten Bosch park, near Nagasaki, but were unable to repeat the victory of England’s Andy Sturgeon Best in Show in last year’s inaugural event.

»

Cuisine

Smell of Success

by Justin McCurry

If you had no idea what Anthony Flenley did for a living, you would probably be able to sniff out his core business within seconds of entering his premises, located a stone’s throw from Osaka Dome.

»

Arts & Culture

Gongs for Actor, Sculptor

by Julian Ryall

Dame Judi Dench and Anish Kapoor accepted Praemium Imperiale awards in Tokyo on October 19, becoming the latest in a long list of Britons to receive the prestigious honour.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Gavin Blair

This month: Case Studies in Japanese Management, Dealing with Disaster in Japan – Responses to the Flight JL123 Crash, and Japanese Fashion Designers – The Work and Influence of Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Rei Kawakubo

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 11のまとめ

by Shoko Nakamura

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

October 2011

British Business Awards

Some Guest Seats Still Available!

by Custom Media

The BBA recognises excellence and promotes success and innovation across all industries, while acclaiming the important social contributions made by organisations through their commitment to community, ethical behaviour and environmental sustainability.

»

Cover Story

Haneda or Narita?

by Julian Ryall

The chrome and glass at Tokyo’s Narita International Airport and the international terminal at Haneda Airport gleam and sparkle, the lines for immigration and customs are orderly, rapid and unfailingly polite, while both facilities are efficient, clean and secure.

»

Publicity

Jetstar Japan to Say Konichiwa in 2012

by Custom Media

After becoming the first low-cost carrier to fly internationally to Japan in 2007, Jetstar Airways recently announced its participation in a joint venture to establish a new low-fare domestic airline under the Jetstar brand that is expected to stimulate fresh travel demand in Japan.*

»

Confab/Expo

Japan’s First Aviation Finance Forum

by Julian Ryall

As its name suggests, Ascend is on the up.

The London-based provider of data, analysis and advisory services to investors in the aerospace sector recently opened an office in Tokyo and hosted Japan’s inaugural aviation finance conference over two days in late September.

»

Interview

Innocent Passion for English Cabbages & Roses

by Julian Ryall

Founded in 1988, Innocent Inc. initially focused on importing and selling European antiques, clothes and lifestyle items. With 60 NIMES outlets across Japan and 250 staff, that business has been performing well—but founder and owner Hisa Tsuchida and director Nori Sakaue have long held a particular passion for British style, design and taste.

»

UKTI

Revitalising UK-Japan trade and spreading the message

by Gary Middlemas

Twenty Japanese firms are among the first to benefit from the joint campaign launched this summer by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and British Airways (BA) to reinvigorate business between Japan and the UK, in the wake of the tragedies of 11 March.

»

Embassy

New Way to Apply for UK Passport

by Maria Miyazaki

The British passport has seen a fair few changes over the years, from that rather large blue book through to the many versions of the current biometric one. Now, the way we apply for passports overseas is also changing.

»

People

Wood’n You Believe It!

by Julian Ryall

He may be 71 years old, but CW Nicol still gets a twinkle in his eye when he has a new project. And as he outlines his latest scheme—to reintroduce horse logging to Japan’s neglected forests—his blue eyes are positively gleaming.

»

Environment

E-idea Winners Announced

by Julian Ryall

The remarkable work of young Japanese eco-entrepreneurs has been recognised by Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance Ltd. (LRQA) and the British Council, with the six winners of the E-idea Competition having received their awards in a ceremony at the British Embassy Tokyo on 21 September.

»

CSR

Pride and Purpose

by Robert Gilhooly

Takeshi Kamigouchi’s shirt is drenched, his face slightly sunburnt and his callused hands beginning to resemble those of a hardened labourer rather than a top business executive. “I think I might have overdone it a bit”, he said, leaning breathless on his spade and wiping away perspiration dripping down his forehead.”

»

Fundraising

Children’s Cancer Charity Event Raises Millions

by Custom Media

More than 350 people attended the Tyler Foundation’s White Hot Extravaganza Night on 28 September which raised ¥25mn from auctions and donations to support its programmes in Japan that improve the quality of life for children with cancer and their families.

»

CSR

Going to the Dogs

by Julian Ryall

Life has been particularly hard for the pets of the Tohoku region abandoned since 11 March, according to Elizabeth Oliver who founded Animal Refuge Kansai (ARK) in 1990.

»

Visiting Japan

Peter V Handal

by Julian Ryall

The technology that was considered the best and cutting-edge a century ago today is long past its sell-by date. The first jump from a moving aeroplane took place in March 1912, while that marvel of engineering, the RMS Titanic, started—but failed to complete—her maiden voyage across the Atlantic in the same year.

»

Publicity

See the Real Japan

by Custom Media

Walk Japan Ltd. pioneered and specialises in off-the-beaten-track walking tours of Japan. Since 1992, it has been introducing little-known areas of Japan that would otherwise remain elusive to most visitors. Avoiding tourist buses, Walk Japan’s tours bring fascinating aspects of the country up close, and enable participants to mix with local people and experience a slice of their way of life.

»

Sport

Football Gentleman Scores Latest Gong

by Ian de Stains OBE

Christopher W McDonald OBE— Chris to his many friends—looks as if he’s stepped out of central casting to play the British ambassador: tall and distinguished; handsome and urbane; witty and intelligent; astonishingly well-connected.

»

Sport

FA Gives Japan New Cup

by Custom Media

English Football Association (FA) Chairman David Bernstein presented his Japanese counterpart, Junji Ogura, with a trophy modelled on the cup originally given by the FA to Japan in 1919. The event, which took place on 23 August at Wembley Stadium, is part of a year-long celebration organised by the Japan Football Association (JFA) to mark its 90th year.

»

Entertainment

Blown Away

by Julian Ryall

Down a rain-slicked back alley in Chigasaki, the sound of The Waterboys’ A Man Is in Love wafts from the windows of a second-floor bar. The singer’s voice is deep and mellow; the flute-player’s notes hang in the air hauntingly.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Gavin Blair

This month: Japan: An Attempt at Interpretation, Unbeaten Tracks in Japan, and Japan

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

September 2011

Cover Story

The Straight-talking Scouser

by Gavin Blair

Taking over as president of Olympus Corporation on 1 April, Michael Woodford MBE joined the small but growing group of foreign bosses at Japanese firms. Based in Tokyo and known as the man who turned around Olympus’ European operations, the 51-year-old Liverpudlian talks about being an insider, an outsider and making changes.

»

Education

School Report

by Julian Ryall

After a bad case of the jitters in the immediate aftermath of the 11 March earthquake and tsunami, life is returning to normal across the Kanto region. Six months later, firms are operating at full tilt once more. And so it is with the schools charged with giving hundreds of children the best international-oriented education possible.

»

Language

Success in Business English

by Michael Thundercliffe

Foreign business people often complain about the low level of spoken English among their Japanese contacts, while human resources managers at Japanese firms complain that employees’ English is inadequate. However, on the basis of having taught English and run corporate training programmes in Japan over the past six years, I know this is not true.

»

Visiting Japan

Sir James Dyson

by Gavin Blair

Japan has a special place in the heart of Sir James Dyson. It was where some of his first vacuum cleaners were sold, providing him with the money to start the firm back in the UK which bears his name. It’s also somewhere he feels his firm’s products are truly appreciated.

»

Legislation

UK’s Tough New Anti-corruption Law

by Michelle Mizutani

On 1 July, there came into force the UK Bribery Act, probably the world’s most ambitious and far-reaching anti-corruption law to date.

»

Publicity

Firms Moving Fast to Grab Top Talent

by Christine Wright

In preparing our July–September Quarterly Report, we found that employers in Japan have been reacting to the major shortage of candidates by speeding up recruitment and making offers of employment to suitable candidates more quickly than in the past, to avoid losing talented applicants to a competitor.

»

Business Risk

Staff Jumping Ship

by Bill Sims

It could be a board of directors’ worst nightmare—a mass exodus of key executives to a rival firm. Losing key people in unanticipated and dramatic circumstances creates a crisis that tests the ability and resolve of senior management and, if not handled correctly, it can threaten the future of an enterprise.

»

CSR

Corporate Volunteers

by Julian Ryall

The windows on two floors of the Tokyo offices of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Japan are blacked out. Most of the lights are turned off in the spacious lobby, while the air-conditioning has clearly been set to operate at a higher temperature than might be expected in summer—although it is still comfortable. And, instead of a throng of employees coming through the front door shortly before 9am on a regular working day, there is only a steady trickle.

»

Relocation

New Dynamics Six Months after the Earthquake and Tsunami

by Julian Ryall

Partly obscured by the sound of tannoys announcing flight departures, the message over the phone was terse and to the point: the key to the house was under the mat, and the relocation team should let themselves in, pack everything and send it to the family’s home overseas.

»

Industry

Retaining Your Best Talent

by Richard King

So you’ve secured the perfect candidate for the position and they start next week. Considering the time and money invested in recruitment, you will want the individual to remain engaged in a productive career with your firm for the long term. This is particularly important if they have bilingual skills, which in Japan are in extremely high demand and short supply.

»

Industry

Recruiting Using Social Media

by David Swan

Although social networks such as Facebook and LinkedIn now boast over 600 million users combined, while micro-blogging services such as Twitter offer a similarly large audience, it is not these numbers that have caught the attention of the recruitment industry.

»

UKTI

New Strategy for Exporters and Investors

by Sue Kinoshita

A new initiative by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) marks a step-change in the government’s support for exporters and investors. As never before, Britain is open for business.

»

Culture

Hyper Japan 2011

by Custom Media

London hosted all that is cool, creative, cute and crazy in Japan with cuisine, cosplay, culture, comedy, community, clothes, competitions and more at Hyper Japan 2011.

»

Sport

“Cradle of Rugby” in First Japan Tour

by Custom Media

The high school rugby team of the UK’s famous Rugby School toured Japan in August in the establishment’s first visit to the country. Rugby School—where the sport was invented in 1823—played three high schools in Yokohama, Tokyo and Nagoya.

»

Books

Drinking Japan: A Guide to Japan’s Best Drinks and Drinking Establishments

by Justin McCurry

This unusual book is a look at life in Tokyo from the perspective of commuting to and from the city on the Odakyu line. The author, a British academic who taught English at Nihon University from 1997 to 2011, rode the line to work from his station at Mukougaoka Yuuen.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Gavin Blair

This month: Tokyo Commute: Japanese Customs and Way of Life Viewed from the Odakyu Line, English in Japan in the Era of Globalization, and Japan as a ‘Normal Country’?—A Nation in Search of Its Place in the World

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 9のまとめ

by Custom Media

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

August 2011

British Business Awards

British Business Awards 2011

by Custom Media

Date: 4th November 2011
Location: ANA InterContinental Tokyo
FREE bottle of Berrys’ United Kingdom Cuvée, Grand Cru, Brut, Mailly champagne to five BCCJ members who can name five of the great British innovators featured.

»

Review

Bonding on the Battlefield

by Julian Ryall

There is a sharp report followed by a profanity. Someone has just been shot. A round impacts against the wooden crates to the side of me, making it clear that my position has been detected. Another shot kicks up dust at my feet and I know it’s time to move.

»

Cover Story

When Driving Is a Joy

by Julian Ryall

For Yuuichiro Nakajima, nothing comes close to driving his Morgan with the hood down and the wind in his hair. This classic motor may have a few drawbacks on the roads of Japan—his British racing green Plus 4 four-seater is somewhat lacking in the suspension department, for example—but there’s still nothing quite like taking out a special car for a spin, he believes. And it doesn’t hurt that it attracts so many covetous glances from others.

»

UK in Kansai

Our Man in Osaka

by Justin McCurry

Simon Fisher understands why Tokyo, as Japan’s political and financial heart, tends to dominate talk of the country’s commercial ties with Britain. But as the UK consul-general in Osaka, he knows, too, that the western part of Japan—stretching from Aichi Prefecture in the middle to Okinawa in the far south—plays a key role in bilateral trade and investment.

»

Interview

Yuzo Yagi - Honorary OBE President, chairman and Ceo Yagi Tsusho Limited

by Gavin Blair

In June, Yuzo Yagi was awarded an Honorary OBE (Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for his support of the British fashion industry through his firm, Yagi Tsusho Limited, which has its headquarters in Osaka.

»

Mergers and Acquisitions

Special Feature

by Gavin Blair

Times of uncertainty tend to witness a dampening down of economic activity in general, and riskier deals such as mergers and acquisitions (M&As) in particular. However, the post-disaster environment appears to be focusing the attentions of Japanese firms on buying abroad, even as the strong yen and challenging domestic economic landscape have not put paid to all inbound M&As.

»

CSR

Teamwork: Two NPOs

by Dylan Robertson

This year’s Japan Market Expansion Competition (JMEC) business-plan writing challenge took on an unusual client, the Tyler Foundation, which is dedicated to improving life for children with cancer and their families. A non- profit organisation set up in 2006, the foundation is funded by private and corporate donations and employs a minimal number of staff.

»

Putting Theory into Practice

by James Weeks

An acquaintance recently told me how impressed he was by the outpouring of support for Japan’s earthquake victims from British and other foreign firms. This, he said, showed the strength of CSR among modern businesses.

»

Embassy

Watch Out for Mickey Finn

by Maria Miyazaki

For most people, residents and visitors alike, the image of Tokyo is that of a teeming but safe metropolis. Life here is generally trouble-free, with relatively low levels of common crime such as theft, mugging, burglary and such. It is generally safe to walk about at night and to travel on public transport.

»

Arts & Culture

UK’s Creative Showcase

by Vicky Richardson

Across the UK, in June and July members of the public get a glimpse of the future of British design at graduate shows. About 5,000 fashion students graduated in the UK this summer, along with 10,000 others studying the design of products, furniture and jewellery, etc.

»

Exhibition

At Home in Japan

by Custom Media

An exhibition at the geffrye Museum in London until 29 August aims to question the widespread stereotype of the minimal Japanese home characterised by large empty spaces devoid of people and clutter. In the West, the Japanese home has reached iconic status for its architecture, decoration and style. However, is the neat, carefully constructed version of Japanese life in fact a myth? “At Home in Japan” is offering a real glimpse of a typical Japanese home today.

»

Arts & Culture

23rd Praemium Imperiale Awards

by Mayumi Makiyama

On 11 July, the Japan Art Association (JAA) named two Britons among the five new laureates of the Praemium Imperiale, one of the world’s most valuable art awards. Sculptor Anish Kapoor and actor Dame Judi Dench—each of whom will receive ¥15mn (£113,000)—were recognised “for their achievements, for the impact they have had internationally on the arts, and for their role in enriching the global community”.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Gavin Blair

This collection of essays by 80 contributors—with a wide range of backgrounds, including CEOs, academics, authors and even a football manager— offers thoughts and potential solutions for the economic, social and demographic challenges that Japan faces. The project was underway before 11 March, but some chapters were either added or rewritten in the wake of the triple disaster, which has since become a focal point for reforming Japan.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 8のまとめ

by Custom Media

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

July 2011

Review

“World First” Magic Wand

by Mayumi Makiyama

The Kymera Wand is the world’s first motion-sensitive, button-less universal remote control using gesture recognition. It can learn 13 infrared remote-control codes and replay them at your command with the same number of easy-to-learn gestures, giving you power over any remote-controlled device with just a flick or a swish. Codes can be overwritten if you change devices.

»

Cover Story

Cloud Over BCP

by Julian Ryall

Anyone who was in Japan on 11 March will remember where they were at 2:46pm that day. Anyone in business will equally recall the chaos of the following days—of staff marooned when train lines shut down, of power cuts and the loss of communications, of dealing with concerned head offices and relocating facilities and staff to other parts of the country—or even overseas.

»

Foreword

Requiem for the Euro?

by Howard Rosen

“The report of the euro’s death was an exaggeration”, Mark Twain might have said. But the famous author, known for his acerbic views on politicians, would also have noted that the current debacle in the eurozone was predictable and the severe problems we—including the major European economies outside the eurozone, such as Britain and Switzerland—face must be laid at the feet of policymakers who have consistently put political fantasies ahead of economic realities.

»

Publicity

Location and Structure Key to BCP

by Custom Media

When our two Nakano Central Park Buildings (NCP Buildings) open in spring 2012, their functional and comfortable design with good access to public transport will represent the birth of a new urban space integrated with 3ha of greenery and an exciting new style of working environment.

»

Visiting Japan

Dr Vince Cable

by Melanie Barlow

On a four-day visit to Japan, Business Secretary Vince Cable met Tokyo, Kansai and Chubu government and business leaders who play a vital role in UK-Japan trade. Accompanied by a business delegation, he also launched a campaign to encourage bilateral business.

»

Feature

The Ever-Evolving MBA

by Julian Ryall

The coveted Masters in Business Administration (MBA) is not a new qualification, but in recent years it has benefited greatly from being reinvented, enhanced and improved upon to make it arguably more relevant and important than ever for getting ahead in business.

»

Language

Not Lost in Translation

by Julian Ryall

With Europe’s longest place name—Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogery-chwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch—Welsh can be more like an exercise in tongue twisting than a language. Yuko Nakauchi, however, has got her vocal chords around all those tricky consonants and stray vowels and so was, in May, named winner of the British Council Japan’s inaugural UK Alumni Talent Show for people who had studied in Britain.

»

Publicity

JFTC Essay Competition 2011

by Custom Media

Since 2005, the Japan Foreign Trade Council, Inc. (JFTC) has sponsored the JFTC Essay Competition to encourage students, young researchers and business people to express their opinions on matters of national and international importance.

»

Education

Learning English Earlier

by Alison Beale

In April, elementary schools started teaching English as a foreign language to 5th and 6th graders, marking a huge step forward for the subject in Japan. This is largely the result of pressure from business, which increasingly wants staff who can use English in practical settings, and who have the international and cross-cultural skills to function well in a global marketplace.

»

Collaboration

Pet Products

by Steve Collins

The usefulness of the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan and BCCJ ACUMEN was recently brought home to me after I had signed a business deal that stemmed directly from having joined the chamber and been featured in its magazine—so I thought I’d share my experience with readers.

»

Environment

Cool and Green

by Julian Ryall

Indications are that Japan is in for another long, hot summer—the effects perhaps exacerbated by power shortages—although there is a revolutionary range of new methods of staying cool and green. Unsurprisingly, they come from a British firm that has earned a reputation for innovation, effectiveness and style.

»

Embassy

When Things Go Wrong

by Simon Lavender

At the height of concern about the nuclear situation at Fukushima, hits on our Japan travel advice webpage soared. For several weeks, web traffic was more than 100 times higher than usual. The Japan page was recording considerably more hits than the travel advice pages for Libya, Egypt and other Middle East countries facing crises of their own. Interest in our Facebook and Twitter pages also surged.

»

Mergers and Acquisitions

Two-Way Trade in IT Firms

by Yuuichiro Nakajima

While Japanese providers of IT services are searching for growth opportunities abroad, foreign firms are looking to secure a beachhead or expand their presence here by buying local firms. The industry is ready for consolidation, but how important are cross-border transactions?

»

Industry

Are You Lean?

by Rick Cogley

Successful firms often talk about focusing on driving growth, maintaining profit, or increasing cost-savings and efficiency. At the same time, they are using antiquated project-management programs focused on document production and rigid project structures.

»

Industry

Flavour of the Month

by Richard Warley

Cloud computing is the industry du jour—and is particularly relevant for the Japanese market, given the impact of the 11 March disasters and the significant restructuring that Japan will have to undertake.

»

Business Risk

The Case for Digital Evidence

by Stuart Witchell

The flow of electronic information seems to be forever increasing. We now have incredible amounts of data being stored via the internet, cloud computing and hard-drive storage devices. Well over 90% of important business data is stored electronically and email is increasingly being used as a primary form of communication.

»

Insurance

Counting the Cost

by Paul Atkinson

At magnitude 9.0, the Great Tohoku Earthquake was one of the largest in Japan and, indeed, the world, with the insurance industry taking a major hit. While media attention soon turned to the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, it is the earthquake and tsunami that took not only a terrible toll of human life, but also caused potentially the world’s largest economic loss from a natural disaster.

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Gavin Blair

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 7のまとめ

by Mayumi Makiyama

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

June 2011

Cover Story

The €100bn Deal

by Julian Ryall

After years of tough negotiations, the European Union and Japan at last agreed in Brussels on 28 May to discuss a free-trade deal that would link the world’s largest market with the third-biggest economy.

»

Review

One Life

by Mayumi Makiyama

One Life is a nature documentary, produced by BBC Earth Films, that shows how creatures in all parts of the world manage to survive and pass on life to the next generation. Featuring insects, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians, mammals, and plants, the film captures the extraordinary range of intelligence needed to survive amid the many challenges of their lives.

»

BCCJ Event

New Events Strategy

by Graham Davis

The BCCJ Events Committee is very pleased to announce an exciting new strategy for 2011–2012 that includes the introduction of five event categories. The change is designed to increase the value members derive from the BCCJ, while clarifying the nature and objectives of all events throughout the year.

»

BCCJ Event

The “Nuclear Sideshow”

by Julian Ryall

Sir John Beddington was in Japan in late May for discussions with his Japanese counterparts about the ongoing situation at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. He also gave a full and frank briefing on the status of the facility at a BCCJ luncheon attended by more than 110 members and guests.

»

Interview

Social Entrepreneurship

by Nicholas E. Benes

In the Setagaya suburbs, a small team of social entrepreneurs at the Board Director Training Institute of Japan (BDTI) is tirelessly working to improve corporate governance at Japanese firms. BCCJ ACUMEN interviewed Nicholas E. Benes, BDTI’s founder and representative director.

»

Transport

For a Green and Pleasant Land

by Yasuhiro Shimasaka

Experts agree that reducing carbon emitted by road vehicles is critical for the UK government’s target of cutting emissions by 80% (compared with 1990 levels) by 2050. To illustrate how this might be achieved, those behind some of the UK’s latest automotive R&D recently showcased their solutions in Japan.

»

Industry

Post-Disaster Preferences

by Custom Media

Drastically changing consumer preferences and perceptions in Japan since the earthquake and tsunami of 11 March have emerged as the economy took a debilitating hit and then showed signs of recovery, according to surveys by I&S BBDO Japan.

»

Industry

What Leaders Need

by Andy White

Unfortunately, for many management consultants and change specialists, the word “crisis”, in either Chinese or Japanese, does not translate into “danger and opportunity”. But perhaps a better translation from the English—and a more accurate definition—is a dangerous moment when one’s full attention is needed.

»

Entrepreneur

“Not Grim up North”

by Julian Ryall

When Nick Bonner arrived in Beijing in 1993 to study and teach landscape architecture, he had no idea that before the year was out he would have laid the foundations for what are today the most successful travel and cultural exchange organisations operating in the world’s most isolated nation.

»

Anniversary

Against the Odds

by Julian Ryall

The Chinese came over the hillsides “like ants”, said Ben Whitchurch, who also recalled wishing, as a private in the spring of 1951, that he had been armed with something that had a faster rate of fire than an Enfield rifle.

»

Arts & Culture

Having Designs on Tradition

by Ian de Stains OBE

The studio is an oasis of understated calm, a breath or two away from a major Tokyo intersection. The artist working from it is a strikingly beautiful young woman dressed in an exquisite kimono; a base of white silk with a delicate floral motif in purple, the colour echoed slightly deeper in the obi sash that also bears at the rear a single white hydrangea.

»

Literature

Bookworms, Ltd.

by Julian Ryall

The list of authors The English Agency Japan has represented is long and impressive. They range from JG Ballard, Kazuo Ishiguro and Ian McEwan to Nick Hornby, John Updike, Ian Rankin and Ed McBain. Chuck in David Peace, Noam Chomsky, Bill Bryson and Bill Clinton and it’s clear that an outfit born in a poky, one-room office in Nishi-azabu back in August 1979 has come a long way.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 6のまとめ

by Custom Media

»

Books

Book Reviews

by Gavin Blair

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

May 2011

Feature Article

The Royal Wedding

by Sir David Warren KCMG

I am delighted to send this message to the readers of BCCJ ACUMEN on the occasion of the marriage of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The day of the wedding was a national holiday and a day of celebration across Britain. In all parts of the United Kingdom, families, friends and neighbours celebrated the wedding at home as well as in many colourful street parties.

»

Cover Story

Pitching the Eurofighter

by Julian Ryall

The opposition may have impressive pedigrees, but they are up against a thoroughbred in the shape of the Eurofighter Typhoon as the race to provide the Japan Air Self-Defense Force with its next-generation fighter enters the final stretch.

»

Environment

E-idea for Young Eco-Entrepreneurs

by Simon Batters

E-idea, like all brilliant ideas, is very simple but wonderfully effective. Young entrepreneurs, with strong environmentally focused ideas, submit a proposal into a national competition to be judged by a specialist panel. The winners receive funding, get plugged into a vast global business network, and are then given commercial and marketing mentoring from industry specialists.

»

My Day

Matthew Broadway

by Matthew Broadway

My Blackberry alarm wakes me at 6am most days, just in time to organise myself and get to the pool at Atago Green Hills Forest Tower Spa for opening time 30 minutes later.

»

Mergers and Acquisitions

Post-Earthquake M&A Prospects

by Yuuichiro Nakajima

The devastation caused by the earthquake and tsunami on 11 March has had a profound impact on Japan’s productive capacity and psychology, not to mention the massive loss of life and livelihoods. The ensuing development at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant is casting a long shadow over recovery, restoration and redevelopment efforts.

»

Business Risk

China Plus One

by Stuart Witchell

As the Chinese market grows and operational risk rises, many global organisations are seeking to supplement their Asia strategy by pursuing new countries in the region. For the past two decades, global corporations have opened factories and service businesses in China to access booming Asian markets and profit from relatively low costs.

»

Survey

Disaster Aftermath Business Confidence Survey

by Custom Media

Inevitably, the 3/11 disaster had a significant influence on the “Foreign Chambers in Japan Spring Survey”, especially the outlook for the economy and firms’ short-term (six months) business performance. Compared to the previous survey (autumn 2010), this one shows uncertainty about the economic situation in Japan, especially over the short term.

»

Embassy

Why You Should Register

by Rebecca Cousins

For most British subjects living in, or visiting, Japan contact with the British Embassy Tokyo’s consular team comes in the form of routine notarial or documentary services. Others may have been helped by the team in times of distress—from losing passports and wallets, to hospitalisations, or dealing with bereavement.

»

Trade and Investment

Investing in Life Sciences

by Kaori Arai

In June 2009, Eisai Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s major pharmaceutical firms, invested more than £100mn in opening its European Knowledge Centre in Hatfield, Hertfordshire. This enabled it to integrate all functions on one site with more than 500 staff, combining manufacturing, discovery and clinical research, marketing, and European headquarters facilities.

»

Industry

Less Drug Lag, More Development

by Phillipe Fauchet

First of all, we would like to offer our deepest condolences to the people and regions affected by the 11 March earthquake and subsequent incidents in the north-east of Japan and neighbouring areas. The pharmaceutical industry in general, and our firm in particular, are monitoring recovery efforts and focusing on ensuring the continuity of the healthcare system and drug deliveries despite current circumstances.

»

Industry

Major Growth Ahead

by Christine Wright

The pharmaceutical industry in Japan is preparing for major growth. As firms compete for market share in the recovering economy, we see hiring freezes have been lifted since last year, while budgets have been adjusted for an anticipated increase in staff numbers.

»

Entrepreneur

When Small Is Big

by Julian Ryall

For a compact car, the Mini has acquired a very large following. Nowhere is that more so than in another nation that values the aesthetic worth of the compact and intricate over the big and bulky.

»

Sport

Marketing the Manchester Magic

by Gavin Blair

One of the UK’s oldest and best known football schools, the Bobby Charlton Soccer and Sports Academy (BCSSA), recently visited Japan to set up a coaching programme with an English-language school and to forge links with local football clubs.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 5のまとめ

by Custom Media

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

April 2011

Opinion

Best Intentions

by Charles E. McJilton

“What can I do to help? What do you need?” are the two most frequent questions I hear, several times a day. And not just from people in Japan.
We have been inundated with offers of help from as far away as Germany and Africa. We fully appreciate this desire to help, especially in a crisis of this magnitude. It represents one of the best aspects of humanity—that we are willing to make sacrifices for people we probably will never meet. It does give us hope.

»

Feature Article

The British Effort

by Julian Ryall

The UK was among the first of about 100 countries to offer help after the Great Tohoku-Kanto Earthquake struck on 11 March. Here is the harrowing story of how three innovative British aid agencies made a difference, written and photographed by two of the first witnesses of the aftermath.

»

Feature Article

Earthquake: The British Effort

by Custom Media

BCCJ Members were quick to respond to the Great Tohoku-Kanto Earthquake. Here is a selection of organisations that have donated or are donating products, services or manpower.

»

CSR

Two Hats, One Job

by Julian Ryall

As a teenager, Jane Best MBE says she was “terribly shy”. That is a little hard to understand, given her position today. As president and CEO of Refugees International Japan (RIJ), she is constantly required to meet people in remote—and sometimes dangerous—parts of the developing world, and to be equally at ease in settings with high-flying businesspeople, diplomats and other officials who support the organisation.

»

Visiting Japan

Simon Berry

by Catherine Shaw

Simon Berry, the chairman of Britain’s oldest wine merchants, laughs at the first question I ask. As we sit down to our early morning breakfast meeting at The Peninsula Tokyo, I enquire what wine he would recommend pairing with the full English breakfast he has just ordered.

»

Jobs

The Good News Salary Guide

by Julian Ryall

The dark days of late 2008 and 2009 have been well and truly left behind for the specialist recruitment industry, with the 2011 Hays Salary Guide underlining the strength of the rebound in Japan and across the key markets of Asia.

»

Entrepreneur

Original Ideas

by Julian Ryall

Whether they are enjoying a quiet drink after work or staging their long-planned wedding ceremony, Japanese people want a sense of place and authenticity in their venue. That’s where Sue Anamizu comes in.

»

CSR

Lending a Listening Ear

by Ian de Stains OBE

For almost 40 years, one organisation has been at the front line in Tokyo when it comes to community mental health care: the non-profit Tokyo English Life Line (TELL). But it offers more than just a telephone counselling service, having the two additional core competencies of counselling for children and for families.

»

Investment

Effects of Earthquake on the Australian Dollar and Yen

by David de Garis

Japan’s importance to Australia is undoubted, as it is the country’s second-largest market after China, taking 19% of exports. Disruption to Japan’s economy might, therefore, be seen as a short term negative for Australia.

»

Industry

Security Is Key to a Smooth Move

by Steve Burson

Relocating an employee to a foreign country is an information-intensive activity. Personal information about the employee, their firm, family and budget is collected and sent to relocation firms, realtors and their contractors. In the past, this data was mailed or faxed overseas and filed in a physical set of drawers under the employee’s name. But now, this information is sent digitally and stored the same way.

»

Interview

Willie Walsh

by Custom Media

We initially provided support to a number of parties who were helping with search and rescue operations, immediately mobilised our teams to get whatever help we could from the UK to Tokyo, and provided assistance to anybody who urgently needed to travel.

»

Arts & Culture

Serenading CEOs

by Robert Ryker

At Tokyo Sinfonia’s Tchaikovsky °Serenade in Oji Hall, on 18 March, donors among the 126 people present generously left almost ¥100,000 in the boxes for Japan’s disaster relief efforts. The Tokyo Sinfonia and I should be out there performing as much as possible for people who now more than ever need to experience the healing power of our music.

»

Olympics, Sport

More than Sport

by Steve Crane

As a newspaper headline, “The Japanese are Coming,” would catch the eye of anyone involved in UK-Japan ties. And that’s exactly what happened in June 2009, when the Leicester Mercury covered the Japanese Olympic Committee’s (JOC) signing of an agreement to use Loughborough University as a pre-tournament training camp for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 4のまとめ

by Custom Media

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

March 2011

Exciting Era Ahead

by Lori Henderson

Since 1 February, I have been shadowing and learning from our incumbent Executive Director Ian de Stains in the lead up to his departure on 31 March. Following nearly 25 years of dedicated service and commitment to the membership, Ian’s retirement naturally presents the organisation with a significant challenge, but also with the opportunity to learn and grow in new directions.

»

Advocacy

Industry Advocacy

by Julian Ryall

Rules and regulations that are applied to firms in the financial-services sector in Japan have been eased over the past five years or so, a development that has been broadly welcomed by foreign firms operating here.

»

Great British Brands

British Airways

by Julian Ryall

British Airways began its new service from Heathrow to Tokyo International Airport, also known as Haneda Airport, on 20 February, underlining the importance the carrier places on its routes to Japan and its ongoing commitment to convenience, flexibility and choice.

»

Business Risk

FCPA Enforcement

by Stuart Witchell

Global regulators are intensifying corruption prosecutions and enforcement. Although the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) took effect more than 30 years ago, there has recently been an increase in indictments, cases of civil enforcement, fines and other penalties.

»

Trade and Investment

Gift Show Nostalgia Trip

by Miwako Tsuru

Recently demonstrating children’s colouring products at a gift show in Japan brought back wonderful memories of my childhood. This may sound like a strange activity in which to engage, but it is just one practical way we can support UK firms expanding into overseas markets.

»

Embassy

Chevening Scholarships

by Anthony Preston

The British Embassy Tokyo’s annual Chevening Scholarship programme offers Japan’s future leaders a chance to study in the UK’s world-famous educational institutions and be part of the future of UK-Japan relations.

»

Arts & Culture

Save our Souls

by Kate Thomson

In a recession, it is inevitable there will be arts funding cuts, but what are these going to be and how will they impact art’s ability to sustain and invigorate society? With rumoured cuts of 25-40%, arts organisations are facing funding uncertainty in three main areas: government, local authorities and private sources.

»

Entrepreneur

Fusion Fingers

by Julian Ryall

The quaint image of a lavender-lined path and pink roses trained around the door of a thatched cottage is one that many Japanese bring back from a visit to the UK. And despite Japan’s own considerable gardening heritage, some want to recreate their very own English garden here.

»

Industry

Rise of the Redback

by Qu Hongbin

If there is to be a rival to the US dollar as the dominant global reserve currency in the 21st century, it surely must be the Chinese renminbi. Home to the world’s second-largest economy, China is likely to have the highest gross domestic product by the 2030s.

»

Entertainment

Japan’s Got Talent

by Julian Ryall

The number of Japanese musicians and singers who have made it in the lucrative markets of Europe and North America is miniscule. Artists who cut their teeth in this market have fared somewhat better in other parts of Asia, but J-pop is still a relatively minor export.

»

Books

People Who Eat Darkness: The Fate of Lucie Blackman

by Mark Schreiber

“Lucie Blackman died … before I ever knew that such a person existed. In fact, it was only because she was dead or missing … that I took an interest in her at all”, admits Richard Lloyd Parry at the beginning of his book.

»

Books

Japanese Consumer Dynamics

by Gavin Blair

The 11 chapters chart the course of the Japanese consumer market from the high growth post-war decades through to the most recent financial crisis, analysing the groups and trends that have emerged, through the eyes of eight contributing authors.

»

Books

Lost in Transition: Youth, Work, and Instability ...

by Gavin Blair

Telling the story of the “lost generation” who have experienced the breakdown of secure employment patterns since the 1990s, this book looks at how the system that once channelled young people smoothly from school to work has come apart in the subsequent decades.

»

Books

Japan-Bashing: Anti-Japanism since the 1980s

by Gavin Blair

From the “yellow peril” to the fear—now seemingly ridiculous—of a Japan-dominated world, the book looks at the portrayal of anti-Japanese sentiment in Western media, political circles, popular culture and public opinion.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 3のまとめ

by Custom Media

»

Industry

2011 Tax Reform Proposals

by Nick Walters

On 16 December 2010, the Japanese government published the 2011 tax reform proposals. They include changes designed to promote the country as a principal Asian financial market.

»

Great British Brands

Lloyds TSB Bank

by Custom Media

Although some two out of three adults in the UK enjoy a financial relationship with the Lloyds Banking Group, many residents of Japan are unaware of the firm’s global size and long history.

»

Interview

Keiichi Hayashi

by Custom Media

Appointed Ambassador of Japan to the United Kingdom on 11 January 2011.

»

CSR

Helping Hands

by Justin McCurry

It’s a busy weekday evening at the Azabudai offices of Hands On Tokyo, where the air is filled with the clunking of plastic bottles and the scent of luxury toiletries.

»

Education

Learning “Real World” Language

by Katie Butler

The world of business changes rapidly and this has never been more true than over the past 10 years.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

February 2011

Feature Article

So. Farewell Then

by Julian Ryall

After close to a quarter of a century as executive director of the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan, Ian de Stains OBE believes he has had “a good innings”. He is stepping aside to allow some new blood to head the organisation and to pursue a number of new ventures.

»

Books

Playing to Wiin: Nintendo and the Video Game ...

by Gavin Blair

Tracing the history of media-shy Nintendo, from its origins as a 19th century family business specialising in playing cards to a world-beater.

»

Books

What's What in Japanese Restaurants

by Gavin Blair

This 180-page guide to eating out in Japan provides a wealth of information for those who want to expand their culinary horizons and know what they’re ordering and eating.

»

Books

Have Japanese Firms Changed?

by Gavin Blair

A look at how Japanese firms have adapted to the changes that have occurred since the bursting of the economic bubble.

»

Feature Article

Hans Dietmar Schweisgut

by Julian Ryall

The first EU ambassador under the European External Action Service (EEAS) framework and head of the Delegation of the European Union to Japan talks on trade, politics, the death penalty, child abductions and his goals.

»

Feature Article

Autos Advocacy

by Julian Ryall

Selling British cars and motorbikes in the Japanese market might at first appear like shipping the proverbial coals to Newcastle. But there is still sufficient skill and know-how in the UK automotive industry—particularly in the area of niche and specialist vehicles—to drive solid demand in Japan.

»

Feature Article

Japan Summit 2010

by Julian Ryall

Japan faces challenges on many fronts as it tries to rebuild a sagging economy, instil a degree of confidence in its political leaders and revitalise a dispirited public.

»

Feature Article

Simon Fraser

by Melanie Barlow

Simon Fraser underlined the strategic importance of the political and economic relationship between the UK and Japan on a recent trip to Japan.

»

Feature Article

What the Consular Team Does

by Maria Miyazaki

Helping Britons cope with arrest, abduction, death and hospitalisation; facilitating births and marriages

»

Feature Article

Skeletons in the Cupboard

by Stuart Witchell

Asia is helping to haul the global economy out of its malaise as US and European economies continue to underperform. As a result of its sustained strong performance, the region continues to attract substantial investment, although the associated risks remain high.

»

Feature Article

Dyson’s New Digital Slim DC35 Multi Floor

by Custom Media

Thoroughly cleans any home or office-floor surface; reaches parts others can’t, and twice as powerful as its closest rivals—that’s Dyson’s latest cordless vacuum cleaner, the DC35.

»

Feature Article

Harmonious Society, Harmonious Handover?

by Justin McCurry

British firms must redouble their efforts to do business in China, as forthcoming regulatory changes and the intricacies of domestic politics threaten to stifle foreign involvement in the world’s second biggest economy.

»

Feature Article

Your Own Private Banyan Tree

by Julian Ryall

As anyone who has tried it will tell you, there is nothing quite like kicking back in the shade of a banyan tree. A native of tropical Asia, it is revered for providing shelter to weary travellers.

»

CSR

The Soft Side of Rock

by Julian Ryall

Utilising everything from rap through songs by Abba, with numbers by Michael Jackson to classical arrangements and traditional Japanese music, several hundred children took to the stage at the Yokohama Kannai Hall on 22 November to compete in the Rock Challenge Japan 2010.

»

British Council

For an Outward-looking Generation

by Jason James

Anyone who has even glanced at the Japanese media recently cannot fail to have noticed the concern over the future of the workforce. “Global personnel” and an “inward-looking” generation are hot topics.

»

Sport

Theatre of Broken Dreams

by Yuuichiro Nakajima

It is early evening on 2 December 2010; there is snow on the ground. The large reception hall at Zurich Exhibition Centre is buzzing with anticipation and anxiety, as the many hopeful delegates try to hide their sense of foreboding or excitement behind glasses of water, wine or champagne.

»

Industry

Choosing the Right School

by James M. Hatch

For most expatriate parents, few activities cause as much stress, worry and annoyance as selecting the right school for their child. Negotiating personally held beliefs regarding quality education and those pedagogical principles practiced within a new environment can be difficult, even for professionals in the field.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 2のまとめ

by Custom Media

»

Industry

For a Values-based Education

by Yvonne Hayes

Faith, intellect, awareness, community and growth are the values-based learning goals of an education at the International School of the Sacred Heart (ISSH). A member of the worldwide network of the schools of the Society of the Sacred Heart, ISSH is a learning community that warmly welcomes international families of all faiths and prepares students for the 21st century.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

December 2010 – January 2011

British Business Awards, Cover Story

2010 BCCJ BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS

by Julian Ryall

The very best of business acumen in the challenging Japanese market was on display at the 3rd annual British Business Awards, held at the Conrad Tokyo hotel on 19 November — an event guest speaker Ian de Stains OBE described as demonstrating the “excellence” that has been applied here by firms both large and small.

»

Economy

18th FCIJ Survey

by Custom Media

Compared with this spring’s Foreign Chambers in Japan (FCIJ) survey, the latest poll indicates uncertainty about the Japanese eco-nomy, especially over the short term.

»

Trade and Investment

Asia Task Force in Action

by Custom Media

“Rewards repay investments many times over for British firms in Japan”, was a key message from a major initiative to boost exports to 12 Asian markets, organised by the RBS Group and UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).

»

Jobs

JAC Global Conference 2010

by Jun Igarashi

For Japanese firms having a tough time with global recruitment, UK-based agency JAC Recruitment held its annual conference in Tokyo on 25 November attended by 55 delegates from 48 firms.

»

Arts & Culture

Interview with David Bintley CBE

by Catherine Shaw

It’s a long way from Huddersfield to Tokyo, but the new artistic director of the National Ballet of Japan, David Bintley CBE, already feels very much at home.

»

Market Visit

Fashion Mission Hits Tokyo

by Custom Media

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) organized a Fashion Sector Market Visit to Tokyo on 8-12 November for the British industry to meet local buyers, agents and the media, as well as to make contacts and learn more about the opportunities in Japan.

»

Confab/Expo

Future of the Digital Era

by Custom Media

The first day’s highlights included keynote speaker Marvin Chow, marketing director for the Asia Pacific at Google Inc. Chow said that digital ad spending represents just 15% of the present advertising market capacity of $550 billion. However, he expects the figures to grow to $1,000 billion and above 50%.

»

Hospitality

BCCJ Members Celebrate Michelin Stars

by Catherine Shaw

In its fourth eponymous guide to the world’s finest dining and accommodation (including, for the first time, the cities of Yokohama and Kamakura), Michelin intro-duces gourmands in Japan to 312 establishments: 266 restaurants and 46 hotels — a number of which are BCCJ Members.

»

Business Risk

Are You Prepared for a Crisis?

by Stuart Witchell

Anyone who said, in summer 2008, that top financial institutions would soon implode or be bailed out, and predicted the crash of the global economy would have attracted laughter.

»

BCCJ Event

British Airways-Moving Forward

by Julian Ryall

With demand for air travel rebounding, Heathrow Terminal 5 over its teething problems, new aircraft ready to join the fleet, and alliances with other airlines enhancing its coverage, British Airways looks to have put behind it the turbulence of recent years, according to CEO Willie Walsh.

»

Visiting Japan

Bright Future for Crucial Market

by Julian Ryall

In mid-October 2008, “the lights suddenly went out for the industry”, admits Nigel Heap, managing director for the Asia-Pacific region at specialist recruitment experts Hays Asia Pacific. Today, they are burning brightly for a firm that has only been in Japan since February 2007, but has quickly become a market leader in specialist recruitment.

»

Feature

Put Your Trust in Escrow

by Julian Ryall

Less than a decade ago, trust banks had a stranglehold on a business that is known in other countries as escrow, but was still rarely invoked in Japan. Changing business habits — not least the increase in cross-border M&As — and the government’s decision to ease the rules on firms permitted to provide escrow services have led to both a number of established firms adding the facility to their portfolios, and several specialist firms opening for business.

»

CSR

It's a Dog's Life for Homeless Pets

by Jun Igarashi

Although Japan is an advanced nation, it is sadly lagging behind others in terms of animal welfare. While pedigree dogs, cats and “exotics” fetch high prices, about 300,000 unwanted, abused or stray pets are put to sleep each year by authorities.

»

Entrepreneur

Health Food for Dogs

by Justin McCurry

As one of Britain’s top police dog handlers, Geoff Bowers was accustomed to putting the 500 animals in his charge through their paces. These days, he is happy to admit that a run with his small number of pet dogs leaves him exhausted. The reason: they are fed a diet comprising completely raw and natural ingredients — a food more than a decade in the making without the additives, grains and cereals found in conventional dog food.

»

Review

Lotus Elise

by Simon Farrell

For weekend thrill seekers, here’s a street-legal head turner that is racetrack-orientated, econo-mical to run, fun to drive and wrapped in a beautiful body.

»

Books

The Grand Design

by Gavin Blair

This is a book that has the ability to make you feel either quite smart or a bit stupid, and sometimes both within a relatively short space of time.

»

Books

Lyndall Urwick: Management Pioneer

by Gavin Blair

Urwick probably remains the single most important figure in the history and development of management in Britain, and this 225-page biography sets out to show how the man and his ideas were formed, rather than examine his contribution to the field.

»

Books

Zen and Japanese Culture

by Gavin Blair

Regarded as one of the most important works of the last century on the subject, Suzuki’s writing — all the more impressive for having been originally written in English — is easy to read and engaging.

»

Books

Challenges of Human Resource Management in Japan

by Gavin Blair

The 32nd release in the Routledge Contemporary Japan Series, the book is split into two halves, an “international perspective” written by seven foreign writers, and the domestic view from eight Japanese academics.

»

Books

International Fragmentation of Production: The Impact of Outsourcing on the Japanese Economy

by Gavin Blair

This analysis of the process of outsourcing manufacturing is an unapologetically academic work that grew out of the author’s PhD thesis.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 1のまとめ

by Custom Media

日本語ハイライト
『BCCJ ACUMEN』Volume 2 / Issue 1のまとめ

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

October-November 2010

Exploiting E-Business

by Julian Ryall

The term “new media” could be considered a misnomer as it has been around for more than a decade and the shift from print to digital has been a work in progress since well before the turn of the century. Yet, it is also appropriate as the forms that media take today are constantly evolving and changing direction.

»

Cover Story, Great British Brands

FT Stands for Authority, Integrity and Accuracy

by Julian Ryall

Famously pink, the Financial Times is instantly recognisable and globally respected as the autho-
ritative voice on all that goes on in the world of finance and business.

»

My Day

David Warren

by Sir David Warren KCMG

David Warren became British Ambassador to Japan in July 2008. Born in 1952, he graduated from Oxford University before joining the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in 1975 and later studied Japanese at the School of African and Oriental Studies and at the British Embassy language school in Kamakura.

»

Business Risk

Organised Crime in Finance Sector

by Stuart Witchell

Recent months have seen more sophisticated activities by Japanese organised crime syndicates, with large numbers of domestic and some international firms targeted by Japan’s yakuza organised crime groups.

»

Investment

Put Your Performance into Perspective

by Magellan Financial Planning

We all know that investing typically requires a long-term approach when markets are in turmoil, as they are now, but it’s easy to lose that perspective and focus on what’s happening over the short term. It can be reassuring, though, to understand how the stock market has behaved historically.

»

CSR

Bring on Bailey!

by Simon Farrell

At the Tyler Foundation’s Rhinestone Cowboy fundraising gala dinner on 1 October, the star of the glittering show was not among the many generous bidders for the donated auction items, nor one of the petite cowgirls in revealing denim shorts.

»

Entrepreneur

Fresh Challenge

by Julian Ryall

Officially, the unprepossessing split-level restaurant beneath the railway tracks close to Yurakucho Station is known as Shin Hinomoto. More commonly, among regulars and people who have heard legends of the place, it is Andy’s izakaya.

»

Visiting Japan

Investing in The Arts

by Justin McCurry

In times of financial strain, the arts are often among the first victims of government funding cuts. But the austerity measures being implemented in Britain and elsewhere should not deter those responsible for promoting culture from reaching out to new audiences, said Lord Tony Hall, chief executive of the Royal Opera House in London.

»

Jobs

Recovery for Recruitment

by Julian Ryall

There is a sense of cautious optimism over the state of the economy, both domestically and globally, but Robert Walters felt the change earlier than most.

»

Feature

Shattering the Stereotypes

by Julian Ryall

Many female executives who have built firms and their own careers overseas are frustrated that outdated and stereotypical images of what it takes to make one’s way in Japan’s corporate world are preventing a lot of very talented women from following in their footsteps here and being similarly successful.

»

Industry

Hidden Costs of a Bad Hire

by Tim Bennett

Firms budget for the financial costs of employing good staff, but many fail to consider the potentially severe implications of a bad hire. Before an employee is terminated, substantial costs are often incurred in terms of the time that management spends on corrective action, mediation and negotiation.

»

Industry

Winning the Race for Talent

by Richard King

Ask most country managers or HR directors of foreign multinational firms operating in Japan and top of their priority lists is finding the best bilingual talent. It’s a tough task and when a firm does finally find and offer a job to the dream candidate, can they close the deal?

»

British Teen Becomes Tokyo "tarento"

by Julian Ryall

About a year ago, Beckii Cruel was a teenager bopping around her bedroom to Japanese pop music and posting her videos on YouTube. Today, she is a global internet phenomenon, seen by an estimated 10 million viewers, and no nation more than Japan loves her every move and sound.

»

Anniversary

Remembering the "Forgotten War"

by Julian Ryall

British veterans are returning to South Korea throughout 2010 to mark the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War that killed 1,000 UK troops.

»

Survey

UK-Japan Relationship

by Jason James

The British Council has released a research report entitled “The Cultural Relationship between the UK and Japan”, which is one of a series from around the world. The research is based on a mixture of statistical indicators, an on-line survey, and in-depth interviews with key individuals involved in the bilateral relationship.

»

Translation

『BCCJ ACUMEN』第6号のまとめ

by Custom Media

日本語ハイライト
『BCCJ ACUMEN』第6号のまとめ

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

August-September 2010

Cover Story

BIG IN JAPAN

by Julian Ryall

An entire wall of the lobby at the IBSC JETRO Invest Japan Business Support Center is taken up by colourful pamphlets declaring “Fascinating Kanagawa: Best place for your business”, and “Saitama City: Business hub in the new era”, plus the more prosaic “Industry of Ehime”. Clearly, Japanese prefectures want foreign business.

»

British Business Awards

2010 BCCJ British Business Awards

by Paul Atkinson

Nominations are invited for the third annual BCCJ British Business Awards to be held at the Conrad Tokyo hotel in Shiodome on 19 November.

»

Investment

Time to Buy into Japan?

by Magellan Financial Planning

Japan has been in a bear market for nearly 20 years. With a stock market index at one quarter of its 1989 value, it looks as though the world’s second-largest economy may soon lose that place to China.

»

Business Risk

Mitigating against Corporate Fraud in Asia

by Stuart Witchell

It is generally true that fraud is harder to conceal when credit is tight or during a major financial crisis. Corporate fraud occurs when there is a clear opportunity and detection appears remote, or when the corporate culture is insufficiently robust and people believe dismissal is the worst that could happen.

»

Great British Brands

Grosvenor’s 1,000-Year History

by Julian Ryall

The floors are burnished hardwood and the kitchen surfaces flecked marble. The architect’s clever use of light lends the apartments a sense of space and airiness. The over-sized windows take in the green expanse of Yoyogi Park, while the night view from the roof garden…

»

Great British Brands

Unilever - CSR and Global Pioneer

by Julian Ryall

Ever since the predecessor of Unilever was founded in 1884 by Lord William Hesketh Lever, it has had priorities other than profit margins and the bottom line. Lever Bros. was one of the few firms of the day that cared about its workforce…

»

Visiting Japan

Sir Robert Fry KCB, CBE

by Justin McCurry

What will the next strategic shock be? When, and where, will it occur? Those were the unsettling questions posed by Sir Robert Fry, former deputy commander of coalition forces in Iraq and newly appointed executive chairman of the British global business performance advisers, McKinney Rogers.

»

Hospitality

Convenience is Key

by Simon Farrell

As Tokyo vies with New York, London and Asian capitals to be the global business center, MORI LIVING is innovating to help exceed the expectations of international and local residents alike by offering the convenience and comfort of all-in-one central locations.

»

The Case for Arbitration

by Julian Ryall

The fine art of arbitration has been a formal part of the legal landscape since it was recognised by England’s Arbitration Act of 1697 — although this form of dispute settlement was in use long before then, notably by the ancient Egyptians and Greeks — and it has become an increasingly important part of doing business in a multi-national world.

»

Embassy

New UK Bribery Laws

by Paul Hunter

The UK has passed new legislation on bribery (the 2010 Bribery Act) and, like the existing law, it will also apply to UK citizens and businesses based overseas including in Japan.

»

Politics

Championing UK Business Abroad

by Julian Ryall

UK firms operating in Japan and elsewhere overseas are to be given a significantly greater helping hand from the British government, said Foreign Secretary William Hague at the British Embassy in Tokyo on 15 July.

»

My Day

Roland Buerk: BBC Tokyo correspondent

by Roland Buerk

Roland Buerk became the BBC’s Tokyo correspondent in January 2009, following five years in South Asia covering war, poverty, elections — and the Indian Ocean tsunami that he survived.

»

Education

Global Learning in Japanese Schools

by James M. Hatch

For Japanese and foreigners with children here, living in Japan offers a safe, clean environment and the opportunity to pursue numerous pastimes. However, when it comes to education, the picture often looks less rosy.

»

CSR

NPO Helps Vulnerable Families

by Dr David Bryer

We know a number of families in Japan have problems, as families do in all countries. Some here face disability, health problems, depression and stress. Mothers in particular can feel isolated at home with babies or young children and there are significant problems with poverty, child abuse and neglect.

»

Review

Dyson DC31 Motorhead

by Jun Igarashi

I gave my mum the new Dyson DC31 motorhead vacuum cleaner because she has owned another Dyson model for a few years. She adores it for the powerful suction and unmistakable — if rather eccentric — design.

»

Industry

How BI Software Drives Intelligent Business

by Jesse Kercheval

A survey conducted in January by Gartner, Inc. predicts that the list of spending priorities for technology chief information officers will continue to be led by software for business intelligence (BI), the umbrella term applied to methods and technologies used to gather and analyse information for improved decision-making.

»

Industry

IT with Service

by Daniel Harlow

IT is changing before our eyes. Thus, firms looking for new systems or upgrades should know how to navigate relevant changes to remain competitive; this means, for large firms, ensuring the accessibility and efficiency that lead to customer satisfaction.

»

Industry

Getting from There to Here

by Lanis Yarzab

The dramatic changes in hiring seen since January in the area of logistics and procurement accurately reflect the lively movement in market prices. While many businesses are still understandably cautious, there is a growing optimism in supply-chain businesses, as they seek to better position themselves for the expected period of expansion with selective hiring. That said, salaries have not grown to levels seen in previous years.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

June-July 2010

Cover Story, FDI, Main Feature

Britain: Open for Business

by Justin McCurry

Britain was an attractive destination for Japanese foreign direct investment long before the yen’s dramatic appreciation against sterling. The doomsayers who warned, years ago, that Japan would pull out of the UK unless it joined the euro zone have been proved wrong. On the contrary, Britain attracts more Japanese investment than any other country in Europe.

»

Economy

FCIJ Business Confidence Survey

by Custom Media

The latest Foreign Chambers in Japan (FCIJ) survey, published on 13 May, shows improvements, in many cases rather significant, regarding the outlook for the Japanese economy and the performance of the respondents.

»

Great British Brands

The Royal Bank of Scotland

by Simon Farrell

Business has been difficult for large, global banks over the past two years and the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is no exception. The good news, however, is that RBS has restored stability after a near-fatal collapse 18 months ago and is ahead of its five-year strategic plan as laid out in February 2009.

»

Seminar

Good Advice on Grey Areas ...

by Geoff Botting

The popular pastime of pachinko, according to Tokyo-based barrister Tim Marrable, is a compelling parable for the legal twilight zone in which many businesses in Japan can find themselves.

»

Tax Advocacy

Tax Advocacy

by Julian Ryall

The tweaks and adjustments that Japan’s financial authorities have made to tax regulations in recent years have been broadly welcomed by the industry here, and there is a degree of optimism that the new government, for all its political problems, is at least indicating willingness to consider opinions on further revisions.

»

Embassy

London 2012: Much More than Sport

by Anthony Preston

Without question, the UK-Japan relationship is both broad and incredibly important to the economic well-being of both nations. This relationship provides many opportunities for the British Embassy and BCCJ members to further our corporate objectives.

»

Interview

Lord Peter Levene KBE Chairman, Lloyd’s of London

by Julian Ryall

Lord Levene of Portsoken visited Tokyo in March to open the new Lloyd’s of London office. After he addressed a BCCJ luncheon on “Fresh Challenges for the City of London” covering a wide range of issues affecting the world’s economies, he was interviewed by BCCJ ACUMEN writer Julian Ryall.

»

Industry

Financial Services Tax Reform

by Nick Walters

Many articles analysing taxation of the financial services industry in Japan look at the challenges many foreign operators face: a high tax rate for corporations and individuals; lack of a clear beneficial funds regime (such as that in Hong Kong and Singapore) to encourage fund investors and managers; and an inspection regime that some perceive as being too strict, bureaucratic and time-consuming.

»

Industry

Winning Talented Women

by Richard King

Foreign banks have a tough diversity agenda in Japan meeting government targets for disabled staff, ensuring ethnic diversity — and with gender too.

»

BCCJ Event

En Primeur, Bordeaux 2009

by Catherine Shaw

“The greatest wines represent the ultimate liquid investment”, said esteemed US wine critic Robert Parker Jr. They also make for excellent enjoyment, as was the case at the BCCJ’s Berry Bros. & Rudd (BBR) En Primeur Bordeaux wine tasting held at the Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo on 3 March.

»

Industry

Business Support & Outsourcing

by Bruce Darrington

Throughout my career in the Asia-Pacific region, I have enjoyed helping businesses in a number of ways, more recently to consider and implement outsourcing. I have helped large businesses and SMEs outsource key processes and this article features some of the considerations and opportunities related to successful outsourcing.

»

Feature Article

But What Does a Coach Actually Do?

by Anne Good

A coach is not a consultant, therapist, counsellor or mentor. Let’s use the simple analogy of riding a bike to explain the differences.

»

Entrepreneur

Social Enterprise Symposium

by Juno Kawakami

The social enterprise movement, in which the UK is considered a pioneer, encourages positive social change and inclusion, and supports civil society.

»

Investment

HFT: Implications for Global Markets

by Magellan Financial Planning

High frequency trading (HFT) that uses superfast computers and algorithms to exploit fractional differences in share prices, or delays in updating market prices in different parts of the world, can make huge profits with sell or buy orders…

»

Business Risk

Protecting Corporate Value in an Adverse Environment

by Stuart Witchell

The global economy is emerging from the most severe economic jolt since the Great Depression, but the fallout continues to be felt around the world. Firms can fold with little or no notice and, while a business may be in good condition, counterparty risk or sudden closure of a key element in the supply chain may damage the entire enterprise.

»

JMEC 2010

Business Plan Competition

by Custom Media

BCCJ President and JMEC judge Philip Gibb cong-ratulated Kristi Mackintosh after she took the honours for Britain at the annual Japan Market Expansion Competition (JMEC) awards on 4 June.

»

CSR

Managing Real Estate Risk

by Alana Bonzi

With increasing securitization of the industry, asset owners recently have began to require the independent third-party risk assessment that ERS provides.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

April-May 2010

Main Feature

ADVOCACY AT WORK

by Julian Ryall

“Women are also more likely than men to speak English, which is useful if they work for foreign firms or Japanese firms with foreign clients or overseas offices staffed by foreigners”

»

Feature Article

Dyson

by Julian Ryall

There are some ideas so revolutionary, so simple, and so blindingly clever that they deserve all the acclaim they receive. As millions of house-proud people around the world would tell you, the bag-free vacuum cleaner launched in 1993 by Dyson is right up there with sliced bread.

»

BCCJ Event

Ultimate Teamwork

by Justin McCurry

Generations of executives have attempted to adapt the mindset of the battlefield to the business world, from developing a strategy to defeat corporate rivals to building camaraderie in an inhospitable environment…

»

Relocation

Manage Your Money When Living Abroad

by Magellan Financial Planning

One thing you don’t want to be worrying about when you’re organising a new job, accommodation, schools and a whole new life abroad is the financial aspects of your future life…

»

Industry

Cut your office costs without cutting corners…

by Olga Vlietstra

The economic outlook for 2010 and beyond is looking increasingly bright. However, current conditions are challenging and most businesses are focused on cutting costs, including overheads…

»

Industry

Make Moving Easier

by Steve Burson

What is the complication in “Helping People Move” these days? Why is there so much involved in finding that house under budget for someone moving to Japan?

»

Business Risk

Overview of Asia

by Stuart Witchell

Managing and growing a sustainable business in Asia can present unique challenges to foreign multinational corporations and overseas investors…

»

Visiting Japan

Jancis Robinson, OBE

by Catherine Shaw

Although already renowned for its sake and beer, Japan has yet to share the international recognition for its wines that is enjoyed by other wine-producing nations such as Australia and New Zealand…

»

Hospitality

More Than Location

by Catherine Shaw

Serviced apartments have weathered the recession well, partly due to the nature of the industry, said Martin Fluck, Japan country manager of Oakwood Asia Pacific…

»

Industry

Expatriate Cross-Cultural Training

by Rene Renjel

What is cross-cultural training and what will I learn from it? This is often the first question newly arrived expatriates and their spouses ask me…

»

Investor

FDI Tax Changes

by James Dodds

In recent years, there have been a number of changes to the Japanese tax system that have had an impact on foreign investment in Japan and Japanese investment overseas…

»

Politics

Keeping the “D” in the DPJ

by Alison Airey

The curious case of Yukio Ubukata highlights tension in the ruling Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) over its internal consultation processes.

»

Books

Extract Value from Consultants How to hire, control and fire them

by Simon Farrell

Outsourcing is on everyone’s lips these days, as firms look to cut costs and add value without compromising quality…

»

Feature Article

Exporting Innovative Design

by Catherine Shaw

During the post-war reconstruction period and the 1980s Bubble era, international architects transformed Japan’s traditional building aesthetic with modernist designs…

»

Embassy

Parental Child Abduction and The Hague Convention

by Simon Wood

The high number of cases of international parental child abduction has recently started to come under the spotlight in Japan…

»

Industry

Blended Development

by Carolyn Gaskins

Some managers believe the best solution to employee development is “Let’s buy a training course”. Perhaps that means implementing traditional classroom training or even an online training programme.

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

February-March 2010

Feature Article

Business Roundtable

by Justin McCurry

Given the myriad challenges of today, now may seem an inopportune time to talk about Japan’s future.
The list of culprits is long and menacing: deep recession, ballooning public debt, demo-graphic change, political flux and competition from emerging economies.
But could Japan’s current economic crisis — the kind, as we are often reminded, that appears only once a century — also be an opportunity to set the country on a new course?

»

Great British Brands

Land Rover of Hope and Glory

by Julian Ryall

Lines on the flanks are clean and smooth; interior is immaculate cream leather smelling factory fresh; dashboard is gleaming state-of-the-art, and the V8 happily purrs away under the bonnet.

The Land Rover has come a long way.

»

Legislation

New UK Bribery Bill

by Julian Ryall

In recent years, the UK Serious Fraud Office (SFO) may not have been all that vigorous in its investigation of corruption cases involving jurisdictions outside the United Kingdom, but Richard Alderman is determined to inject a new sense of urgency into the organisation “to make it very clear that corporations involved in corruption will not flourish”.

»

Interview

Minoru Mori, KBE: CEO & President of Mori Building Co., Ltd.

by Catherine Shaw

In December 2009, in recognition of his distinguished contribution to relations between the UK and Japan, and his significant contribution to collaboration between the two countries in the arts, Her Majesty The Queen appointed Minoru Mori to be an honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

»

Feature Article

20 Years of Breakfast Toastmasters

by Geoff Botting

Former BCCJ President Graham Harris stands in front of the crowd to explain how, 20 years ago, the world changed forever. Moments earlier, speechwriter John Harris had taken the podium to reveal the secret of his craft lies not in “data delivery”, but in the telling of a good story.

»

Hospitality

Embracing the Best

by Catherine Shaw

Fergus Stewart, general manager of the ANA InterContinental Tokyo, is one of the few in Japan’s beleaguered travel industry to report a successful 2009. But he is quick to point out that the hotel’s positive performance had much to do with both the widely held perception that the flagship hotel is an affordable luxury option and the loyal following in Japan.

»

Investor

For Love of Money

by Julian Ryall

Standing in the back streets of one of Tokyo’s numerous neon-lit “entertainment districts”, what you see is not necessarily all you get. The garish establishment with prices advertised by the hour…

»

Health

Investing in the Healthcare Industry

by Magellan Financial Planning

According to the United Nations, the global population will increase from 6.7 billion today to 9.4 billion by 2050. One-third will be over the age of 60.

»

Feature Article

Staffing Challenges in a Complex Market

by Robert Walters Japan

With the world’s second-largest economy, Japan continues to be one of the most important markets for…

»

Feature Article

Danger of New Drugs

by Gabriel Symonds

»

Feature Article

Ozawa Fights On

by Alison Airey

The political funding scandal surrounding the Democratic Party of Japan’s (DPJ) powerful secretary-general Ichiro Ozawa has rocked the party and shone the spotlight on challenging aspects of its transition to power.

»

Education

Universities Boost UK-Japan Ties

by Emma Parker

The internationalisation of higher education is a priority issue for governments worldwide. By leveraging the reputation and expertise…

»

Feature Article

ECO CIRCLE

by Simon Farrell

Discarded clothes and textiles take up a tremendous amount of space in landfills and have a major impact on the planet when incinerated. An innovative recycling technology introduced by Teijin can help make the clothes entirely sustainable.

»

Feature Article

New Organic Certification Services

by Simon Farrell

With more than 10 years of experience in providing organic certification services to Japanese and international clients, Ecocert-QAI Japan Ltd. is diversifying.

»

Feature Article

Magazines Make it Matter

by Simon Farrell

Custom Media KK extensively promotes CSR and environmental issues through BCCJ ACUMEN and WIFM lifestyle magazine. In addition, it supports the UK charity Help for Heroes, providing free advertising to help raise funds for soldiers’ rehabilitation, medical treatment, and reintegration into society.

»

Arts & Culture

Nezu Museum

by David Cairns

Popular for tourists in Tokyo’s uber-trendy Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, is the Herzog & de Meuron Prada building—a glass-lozenge mecca for fashionistas that has graced travel and style journals since 2003.

»

Books

The New Rules of Marketing & PR

by David Meerman Scott

This second edition, which has been completely revised and updated, explains to the technical novice how the web has changed the rules of marketing and PR and how to leverage the potential of the individual media…

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

December 2009 - January 2010

CSR

Funds Aid Fight for Rights

by Jane Best MBE

Refugees International Japan (RIJ) began in 1979 with advocacy efforts to improve conditions for Indochinese refugees, particularly Cambodians in camps in Thailand.

»

Feature Article

2009 British Business Awards

by Julian Ryall

It may have been a testing 12 months for firms large and small everywhere, but the BCCJ’s 2009 British Business Awards gala dinner on 26 November underlined the excellence in the UK business community here.

»

Economy

Business Survey

by Simon Farrell

The global economic uncertainties seem to have eased and the economic outlook for Japan in the next six months is positive, according to the latest Foreign Chambers in Japan (FCIJ) Business Confidence Survey.

»

Economy

Road to Recovery

by Seiji Shiraishi

After four consecutive quarters of contraction, Japan’s economy is slowly moving along the road to recovery. Industrial production bottomed out in February and…

»

Great British Brands

Triumph over Adversity

by Julian Ryall

There’s nothing quite like the rumbling, throaty growl of a Triumph as it kicks into life. In the country renowned for mass global motorbike production, the president of Triumph Japan says…

»

Politics

End of ‘Iron Triangle?’

by Alison Airey

The speed of change under the government of Yukio Hatoyama has been faster than most expected. Arguably, the most profound changes are being made to the way Japan governs itself…

»

Feature Article

Not Scotch Mist

by Catherine Shaw

Few companies have emerged from the global downturn unscathed, but Scotland’s whisky industry has proven relatively resilient — with increased exports to Japan. “It’s an affordable luxury”, says David Croll, who established Whisk-e…

»

Industry

Interactive Dialogue

by Robyn Nadler

Among the reforms to the regulatory inspection process recently announced by Japan’s Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission (SESC) is an emphasis on “more interactive dialogue” with management.

»

Feature Article

Clean up with green investment

by Magellan Financial Planning

By the time you read this, Copenhagen and its relevance to Climate Change will have been forgotten. Memories of the Little Mermaid statue in the harbour and of the Danish capital as the home of Tuborg beer will have been restored.

»

Education

20 Years of Teaching

by David Williams

This year marks the 20th anniversary of The British School in Tokyo. Today, we are a two-site school for over 650 students, with a reputation for providing a British education of the highest calibre to Nursery children…

»

Industry

Workplace Trends

by Gordon Hatton

Mobile business tools have widened the potential definition of the workplace well beyond the confines of a specific piece of real estate. Yet we still cling dearly to our tactile office, and employees become defensive of personal space and amenities during renovation or relocation.

»

Feature Article

Tribute to Creative UK

by Julian Ryall

For the first time, four of the five laureates in Japan’s prestigious Praemium Imperiale Awards are from the same country — a result hailed as a reflection of the creative depth and cultural diversity of Great Britain.

»

Books

Conflict and Change

by Pierre Olcott PhD

The biggest surprise about Conflict and Change was learning that, according to the publisher, it is the first book on the challenges associated with foreign takeovers of Japanese firms. At a BCCJ luncheon at the Hilton Tokyo hotel on November 11…

»

Jobs

2010 HR Trends

by Pierre Gaulis

Employment figures — a key indicator of economic activity — are revealing welcome trends for early 2010, as firms begin to position themselves to exploit opportunities in the economic upturn. Data from the Statistics Bureau of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications suggest hiring activity will start to pick up [...]

»

Embassy

Are you a British National in Japan?

by Rebecca Cousins

Welcome from the British consular network in Japan. Some of you may have used our services, some of you may have heard of us, and some of you may have no idea who we are or what we do. I hope we can help clarify!

»

Media

Japan / UK News

»

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