As lifestyles and values continue to diversify and remote work becomes more widespread, expectations for the workplace are evolving. In response, NOK Group has launched a company-wide initiative to reimagine its office environments in line with its Corporate Identity (CI), aiming to create a unified space that reflects its integrated brand. This transformation is already underway at several locations, with younger employees taking the lead.

NOK’s Workplace Guidelines: Enabling efficient and creative ways of working

NOK Group’s workplace reform is shaped by its original Workplace Guidelines, which introduce a thoughtfully zoned office layout designed to support diverse work styles. Each floor is divided into three distinct zones: "Focus" for deep, concentrated work, "Collaboration" for teamwork, and "Gathering" for informal communication and social interaction. A free-address system lets employees choose where to sit based on their needs, with options ranging from private booths to spacious communal tables. This flexible, purpose-driven design encourages more efficient and creative work, improves both the quality and frequency of communication, and promotes a healthy balance between work and breaks.

Zoning Example: NOK Kanagawa Branch

Young employees, NOK Group’s future leaders, are at the core of its workplace reform efforts. Taking the lead from the outset, they began by conducting surveys and interviews with colleagues, branch managers, and executive officers to uncover key challenges and define a vision for the ideal office. They visited offices at other companies, partnered with external consultants and construction firms, and played a central role in shaping the overall concept and design, ultimately presenting their plan to senior leadership. Even after renovations are complete, they remain actively involved, helping colleagues adapt and make full use of the new spaces. This end-to-end experience not only drives workplace transformation but also offers a hands-on opportunity for young employees to develop essential business skills.

Case 1:
Transforming two branches into inspiring spaces where employees can thrive

The first site to implement workplace reform was the NOK Kanagawa Branch in Ebina City, Kanagawa Prefecture. At the time, two separate branches in the region were being merged into a single new location; an ideal opportunity to introduce a fresh workplace concept.

A cross-functional project team was assembled with three members from each branch, chosen through a mix of self-nomination and recommendations. To ensure a broad range of perspectives, the team also included an employee working reduced hours due to childcare responsibilities.

Initially, the two branches’ different business functions led to suggestions that their workspaces remain separate. There were also concerns that employees might slip back into conventional habits, like always sitting at the same desk.

Initially, the two branches’ different business functions led to suggestions that their workspaces remain separate. There were also concerns that employees might slip back into conventional habits, like always sitting at the same desk.

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To help spark connections between members of the two previously separate branches, a Communication Wall was installed near the entrance, featuring employee profile cards as conversation starters.

Following the relocation, a cross-branch team was formed to embed the new ways of working. The initiative was structured around three core teams: "Community," overseeing overall workplace operations; "Facility," managing equipment and spatial usage; and "Connection," organizing social activities like shared meals to encourage interaction.

Regular employee surveys are conducted to gather feedback and guide ongoing improvements. The result has been a noticeable boost in cross-branch collaboration, with greater exchange of talent and ideas. While the initiative is still evolving, efforts to enhance the workplace continue to build momentum.

Case 2.
Revitalizing a historic branch to foster a sense of pride

Established over 20 years ago, the NOK Anjo Branch in Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture, faced two major challenges: a shortage of meeting rooms due to the surge in online meetings, and reduced communication stemming from increased remote work.

After careful research and analysis, the team identified three core focus areas: creating structured and balanced workstyles and spaces, strengthening cross-functional communication, and fostering pride and engagement. These pillars informed the development of a new workplace concept: A Branch that Inspires Pride through Balance and Breathing Space.

In addition to the standard Focus, Collaboration, and Gathering zones outlined in the Workplace Guidelines, the Anjo Branch introduced a unique fourth zone: "Challenge." This space showcases NOK Group’s history and products, helping employees feel more connected to the company while also serving as an informative area for visitors.

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To naturally spark conversation, the Anjo Branch adopted an open layout and introduced a playful innovation: the Treat Machine, a special vending machine that dispenses free drinks only when used by two people together. This lighthearted feature encourages spontaneous interaction and well-timed breaks. To support the free-address system, a simple rule was introduced: employees must take their belongings with them when stepping away for meetings or other activities, helping maintain a flexible, shared workspace.

A follow-up survey conducted four months after the renovation revealed a host of positive changes. Employees reported higher motivation and productivity, smoother communication, and a healthier balance between work and breaks. Strikingly, 84% of respondents said they would recommend or showcase the revamped Anjo Branch to colleagues or even external visitors, highlighting the strong sense of engagement the new environment has inspired.

Building on this success, NOK Group will continue expanding workplace reforms across Japan, working to create environments where every employee can thrive.

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