SOYOKAZE Eases Grooming Rules and Expands New Uniform Rollout from June 2026

SOYOKAZE Co., Ltd., a nationwide provider of elderly care services in Japan, is gradually relaxing its grooming rules to create a workplace where each staff member can work in their own authentic style. As part of this initiative, the company began introducing new uniforms at its “Soyokaze” care facilities in December 2025 and will further expand their use from June 2026. As the care industry faces a major challenge in securing talent, SOYOKAZE believes that an environment where staff can work as themselves enhances psychological safety and ultimately improves service quality. Since 2025, the company has relaxed grooming rules related to hair color, hairstyles, nails, and facial hair from the perspective of respecting staff individuality. Key changes include freedom in hair color and hairstyle, including inner color and extensions; neatly maintained facial hair; nail color; eyelash extensions; and freedom to wear inner shirts. The new uniform adopts a simple, understated navy design intended to serve as a “background” or “canvas” that naturally highlights each staff member’s individuality. The navy top conveys sincerity and trust, while the black pants support ease of movement, combining the cleanliness and functionality required in care settings. Snap buttons are used for the second and third buttons to reduce the risk of buttons falling off during work. The design also helps prevent gaps in clothing, allowing staff to move safely when in contact with customers while maintaining a neat appearance. Both the tops and pants are designed to be worn regardless of gender, balancing mobility and comfort. The new uniforms have been introduced gradually since December 2025, with broader use planned from June 2026. Rather than switching all uniforms at once, SOYOKAZE is adopting a “mixed operation” approach, continuing to use existing uniforms until the end of their service life. The coexistence of old and new uniforms symbolizes both a commitment to valuing existing resources and a culture that respects diverse individuality. SOYOKAZE states that relaxing grooming rules does not compromise courtesy. Based on respect and safety for customers, the company aims to build a new standard for care workplaces by creating an environment where staff can work in their own style. It will continue striving to turn diverse individuality into strength and provide warm, attentive services tailored to each customer. SOYOKAZE operates care services nationwide under the “Soyokaze” brand, and ranks first in the industry for the number of short-stay facilities it operates. The company also runs many multi-service care facilities and actively develops new businesses and services beyond conventional frameworks, aiming to improve quality of life for older adults and realize a society where everyone can live authentically.