Explore how Fujii Corporation, a recognized leader in diversity management, is revolutionizing the workplace. From eliminating barriers to empowering employees with diverse backgrounds, they exemplify a commitment to inclusivity and productivity. 

Fujii Corporation (Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture; President: Daisuke Fujii) proudly holds the distinction of being recognized as one of the "100 Diversity Management Companies" by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI). With a workforce that includes women, the elderly, foreigners, and individuals with disabilities, the company is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment. To facilitate a seamless working experience for all, steps in the factory have been eliminated, leading to a significant boost in productivity. At Fujii, the ethos is rooted in mutual understanding and shared prosperity. The company is committed to maximizing the potential of its employees from diverse backgrounds, thereby enhancing its future market competitiveness.

Established in 1950, Fujii Corporation specializes in the development, manufacturing, and sale of walk-behind snow blowers and riding lawn mowers, alongside die-less (mold-less) press processing for forming parts, sheet metal and steel material sales, and commissioned processing. The company, which employs 113 individuals, continues to uphold its legacy of excellence.

Their journey towards diversity and inclusion spans decades. In the 2000s, they not only constructed a barrier-free factory but also leveled the existing factory floor, rendering it completely flat. All loading platforms have been transitioned to casters, significantly reducing the risk of parts and tools falling or sustaining damage. As a result, the need for a forklift, which previously necessitated a nationally certified operator and emitted exhaust fumes, has been eliminated.

In their commitment to safety and efficiency, restroom facilities have been meticulously renovated. Reflecting on this evolution, President Daisuke Fujii remarked, “Despite our modest size, we tailored our actions to suit our company. Embracing diversity has proven to be a catalyst for increased productivity.”

In 2008, they welcomed the first female employee, and by 2010, they extended the upper age limit for reemployment from 65 to 70. In 2013, a dedicated international student from Bangladesh joined as a full-time employee. Today, individuals from Myanmar and Turkey actively contributing to the company.

Among international team members, some observe Islamic practices, including fasting and prayer five times a day. The company encourage them to utilize their break time effectively, ensuring they have the freedom to come and go outside the office. President Fujii emphasizes, “A company thrives on economic activities, and we uphold the principle of keeping politics and religion separate in the workplace.”

In 2014, Fujii Corporation earned the distinction of being named a “diversity management company.” This recognition also provided the impetus to expand employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities beyond those with physical limitations. President Fujii shared, “The pamphlet I received at the award ceremony overlooked that detail. Consequently, based on expert advice, we outsourced the bagging of factories and warehouses. Presently, we have two employees with physical disabilities, one with intellectual disabilities, and three with mental disabilities, all contributing meaningfully to our operations.”

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Source: Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun