Vaccination Efforts in 2021

In 2021, Rakuten made significant strides in empowering Japan through a robust vaccination project. The company orchestrated joint regional workplace vaccinations, setting up mass vaccination centers in key cities such as Kobe, Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Sendai. These efforts resulted in providing over 870,000 vaccinations, contributing significantly to the nation's healthcare initiatives. Additionally, Rakuten extended its vaccination endeavors beyond Japan, carrying out vaccination campaigns in India to combat the global health crisis.

The vaccination project at Rakuten showcased the organization's resolute commitment to societal wellness and empowerment. With teams organized from various business units, including the general planning department and Rakuten Travel, the operation addressed new challenges daily, striving for continual improvement. The corporation's relentless dedication to restoring normalcy and health in Japan and across borders underscored its pivotal role in the fight against the pandemic.

Empowerment through Sports

Sports have the remarkable ability to drive empowerment, and in 2021, Para athletes from Rakuten's social business delivered exceptional performances on the global stage, inspiring and captivating many. The sheer display of determination and skill by these athletes not only brought attention to their individual achievements but also served as a source of motivation and empowerment for countless individuals facing their own challenges. These athletes became beacons of hope, showcasing the power of resilience and the potential for success in the face of adversity. Through their achievements, they emphasized that physical limitations need not inhibit one's ability to achieve greatness. Rakuten's support for these athletes demonstrated a commitment to empowering individuals and fostering a more inclusive society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and excel, regardless of their circumstances. By leveraging the platform of sports, Rakuten not only celebrated triumphs but also actively contributed to breaking down barriers and shifting societal perceptions around abilities and disabilities.

Commemoration of the Great East Japan Earthquake

In 2021, the 10th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake was marked with various events held in remembrance. The earthquake, followed by a devastating tsunami and nuclear disaster, had a profound impact on Japan and the world. The commemorative events served as a reminder of the resilience and strength displayed by the Japanese people in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Rakuten's involvement in these events reflected its commitment to honoring the memory of the disaster and contributing to the ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts. As a global company deeply rooted in Japan, Rakuten's participation in the commemoration underlined its dedication to supporting the communities and individuals affected by the earthquake. The events sought to pay homage to the lives lost, the survivors, and the collective spirit of unity and perseverance that defined the post-disaster landscape.

Through its active involvement in the events marking the anniversary, Rakuten demonstrated its solidarity with the people of Japan and its ongoing support for initiatives aimed at rebuilding and revitalizing the affected regions. The commemoration served as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembrance, resilience, and the enduring human spirit in the face of tragedy.

Technological Advancements and Innovations

In 2021, Rakuten displayed a strong commitment to technological advancements and innovations. The company took significant strides in the telecommunications sector with the introduction of Rockten Mobile's new service plan, Rockten Unlimited Six. This new plan garnered a positive response from customers, resulting in the total number of subscribers surpassing 5.1 million by September. Additionally, the expansion of Rockten Mobile's network to cover 94.3% of Japan's population by October demonstrated the company's rapid progress in the telecommunications industry.

Furthermore, Rakuten established a new business organization, Rockten Symphony, to consolidate its telecommunications expertise and offer 4G and 5G infrastructure solutions to customers globally. This initiative showcased the company's dedication to providing cutting-edge telecommunications services and platform solutions. In addition to its achievements in the telecommunications field, Rakuten Fintech businesses continued to evolve, driven by the Rakuten Card, contributing to the development of a cashless society.

The company's efforts in the technological sphere extended beyond telecommunications and fintech, with innovations in logistics and retail. The alliance with Japan Post Group aimed to bring about significant changes in the future, expanding the range of Rockten Mobile pop-up stores and venturing into new business territories. Overall, Rakuten's focus on technological advancements underscores its commitment to driving innovation across diverse industries and markets.

Expansion of Rockten Mobile Services

In 2021, Rakuten Mobile significantly expanded its services with the introduction of the Rockten Unlimited 160 plan, which garnered positive reception from customers, leading to a subscriber base surpassing 5.1 million by September. The company also focused on rapidly adding new base stations, resulting in network coverage of 94.3% of Japan's population as of October. This expansion demonstrates Rakuten Mobile's commitment to reaching more people and enhancing its telecommunications offerings.

Additionally, Rakuten Mobile established a new business organization, Rockten Symphony, consolidating its telecommunications expertise under a single global banner. This move aimed to provide 4G and 5G infrastructure and platform solutions to customers worldwide, showcasing the company's dedication to offering cutting-edge telecommunications services on a global scale.

Furthermore, Rakuten Mobile's relentless expansion and innovation in the telecommunications sector signify a shift towards a future-oriented approach. The company's strategic initiatives not only reflect its growth trajectory but also underscore its mission to accelerate the adoption of mobile services and technologies, ensuring that its services remain at the forefront of the telecommunications industry.

Establishment of Rockten Symphony

In 2021, Rakuten established a new business organization known as Rockten Symphony, bringing together the telecommunications expertise and know-how of the company under a single global banner. This move aimed to offer 4G and 5G infrastructure and platform solutions to customers worldwide, showcasing the company's commitment to expanding and enhancing its telecommunications capabilities. The formation of Rockten Symphony represented a strategic effort to consolidate and leverage the company's strengths to provide cutting-edge telecommunications services in the rapidly evolving global market.

The establishment of Rockten Symphony provided a platform for Rakuten to strengthen its presence in the telecommunications industry and enhance its offerings both domestically and internationally. By pooling its resources and expertise in this dedicated business organization, Rakuten aimed to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced telecommunications technologies. This strategic initiative not only positioned Rakuten as a formidable player in the telecommunications sector but also underscored its commitment to offering innovative and impactful solutions to a diverse clientele. The formation of Rockten Symphony was a significant step in Rakuten's evolution as a comprehensive telecommunications service provider catering to a wide range of customer needs and preferences.

Growth and Evolution of Commerce Business

In 2021, Rakuten made substantial strides in expanding its commerce business. The company's diversified industry, including Rockten fashion and Rockten seiyuunet super, experienced significant growth, with leisure-related businesses also enjoying heightened popularity. As a result, Rakuten's reach expanded both in Japan and globally, engaging a broader customer base. This acceleration in commerce was not merely a temporary upsurge influenced by the pandemic; instead, it reflected the ongoing and dynamic evolution of Rakuten's diverse businesses. The company's efforts across the world continued to strengthen, appealing to a wider audience and gaining momentum in their growth trajectory. Additionally, Rakuten's focus on social issues such as climate change underlined its commitment to a sustainable approach as it continues to evolve and expand.

Social Responsibility and Climate Action

In 2021, Rakuten undertook significant social responsibility and climate action initiatives. Notably, the company made substantial contributions to empowering Japan by promoting joint regional workplace vaccinations, providing over 870,000 vaccinations in Kobe, Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Sendai. Additionally, they conducted vaccination efforts in India, showcasing a commitment to global public health beyond corporate borders. Rakuten's involvement in sports included para-athletes from Rakuten social business excelling on the world stage, inspiring and bringing excitement to many. The company also commemorated the 10th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 through various events, demonstrating a commitment to the country's resilience and healing.

Furthermore, Rakuten actively trained experts and adopted new technologies in the tech field to enhance people's lives. This proactive approach aligns with the company's dedication to making a positive impact beyond its commercial activities. Additionally, Rakuten has been taking action on social issues such as climate change, exemplified by their triple zero (z) target, signifying a concentrated effort to mitigate the organization's environmental footprint. Moreover, the company's emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency underscores a conscientious approach towards environmental responsibility.

Development of Rakuten Fintech Ecosystem

In 2021, Rakuten made significant strides in developing its fintech ecosystem. The Rakuten fintech ecosystem had a pivotal role in driving the transition towards a cashless society, with the Rakuten card serving as a key driver for this movement. Rakuten's fintech businesses in Japan showcased continued growth, with the Rakuten fintech ecosystem being propelled by the momentum of the Rakuten card. This drive towards digital transactions has been a fundamental aspect of Rakuten's vision for the future of finance.

Furthermore, Rakuten's ambitious triple three target, as announced by Rakuten Card, signifies the company's commitment to further advancing its development. Overseas, Rakuten International Bank opened as the first fully online banking service in Taiwan, contributing to the expansion of Rakuten's fintech services beyond its domestic market. Additionally, Rakuten Pay widened its service reach to Europe, demonstrating the company's endeavor to make its fintech ecosystem more globally accessible. These strategic advancements are indicative of Rakuten's dedication to fostering financial inclusion and technological innovation on a global scale.

Rakuten's International Expansion and Collaborations

In 2021, Rakuten made a significant impact on a global scale by actively promoting joint regional workplace vaccinations. Not only did the company operate mass vaccination centers in various Japanese cities, but it also extended its vaccination efforts to countries like India, demonstrating its commitment to global health and well-being. Moreover, Rakuten's reach expanded beyond Asia, with the establishment of Rakuten International Bank, the first fully online banking service in Taiwan, and the widening of Rakuten Pay services to Europe. These global initiatives showcase Rakuten's dedication to meeting diverse market needs and establishing a strong international presence.

Rakuten's strategic collaboration with the Japan Post Group is poised to bring about substantial changes in the future. In addition to focusing on logistics centers, the partnership aims to expand the presence of Rakuten Mobile pop-up stores, providing convenient access to Rakuten's products and services for a broader audience. These efforts underline Rakuten's commitment to delivering seamless and innovative solutions, addressing the evolving demands of international markets. With an expanding global footprint and a growing suite of international services, Rakuten continues to solidify its position as a key player in the international business landscape.

Work Environment and Employee Initiatives

In 2021, Rakuten made significant contributions not just in empowering Japan but also in creating a positive work environment for its employees. The company organized teams comprising various businesses centered around the general planning department and Rak-10 Travel to plan and execute joint regional workplace vaccinations. Despite the daily challenges, the teams worked together to improve operations and provide over 870,000 vaccinations in locations such as Kobe, Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Sendai. This proactive approach aimed to restore normality to life in Japan after the disruptive impact of the pandemic.

Rakuten's commitment to nurturing a supportive work environment also extended to organizing various employee initiatives. Despite the ongoing shifts in lifestyles and work environments, employees maintained a positive outlook and actively participated in both online and offline activities. These efforts not only helped in creating a sense of togetherness but also contributed to employee satisfaction and well-being. By fostering such a work culture, Rakuten managed to offer initiatives that brought smiles to faces and created new experiences, ultimately enhancing the overall work environment.

Focus on Sustainability and Success

In 2021, Rakuten made significant strides in promoting sustainability and success. The company's commitment to empowerment was clearly evident through various initiatives, including the successful implementation of a vaccination project. Rakuten demonstrated its dedication to empowering communities by organizing joint regional workplace vaccinations and providing over 870,000 vaccinations in Japan. The company's efforts extended beyond Japan, with vaccination projects also taking place in India. In addition to its commitment to public health, Rakuten also focused on empowering para-athletes, who showcased remarkable performances on the world stage, inspiring and exciting many.

Rakuten's sustainability efforts extended into various sectors, including technology and commerce. The company actively trained experts and adopted new technologies to enhance people's lives, emphasizing its commitment to evolving and accelerating its impact. In the commerce sector, Rakuten saw significant expansion, with businesses such as Rakuten Fashion and Rakuten Seiyuunet Super experiencing notable growth. The company's leisure-related businesses also gained popularity, showcasing the diverse and evolving nature of Rakuten's endeavors in the pursuit of sustainability and success.

Highlight

In 2021, Rakuten made a significant contribution to empowering Japan through a vaccination project, providing over 870,000 vaccinations and carrying out vaccination efforts in India. The company also focused on empowering para athletes, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, and actively training experts and adopting new technologies in the tech field.

Rakuten Mobile announced the new service plan, Rakuten Unlimited 6, which received a positive response from customers, surpassing 5.1 million subscribers by September. The company also expanded its network coverage to 94.3% of Japan's population and established a new business organization, Rakuten Symphony, offering 4G and 5G infrastructure and platform solutions to customers worldwide.

The blog post also highlighted the growth and diversity of Rakuten's expanding commerce business, which evolved and grew stronger in 2021, including new businesses such as Rakuten Fashion and Rakuten Seiyuunet Super. The company's leisure-related businesses also enjoyed increased popularity and expansion across the world.

Rakuten addressed social issues such as climate change and continued its progress in taking action. The company's various fintech businesses, including Rakuten Card and Rakuten International Bank, contributed to the development of the Rakuten fintech ecosystem and advancement toward a cashless society. Additionally, Rakuten Pay expanded its services to Europe.

In partnership with the Japan Post Group, Rakuten focused on significant changes in the future, including the expansion of Rakuten Mobile pop-up stores. The company also emphasized its employees' positive outlook and engagement in various initiatives and events, both online and offline, bringing smiles and creating new experiences for everyone involved.

The post ended with the themes of sustainability, energy, success, and collaboration, reflecting Rakuten's commitment to focus and deliver together.

FAQ

Q: What is Rakuten's contribution to empowering Japan in 2021?

A: In 2021, Rakuten made a significant contribution to empowering Japan by actively promoting joint regional workplace vaccinations. The company organized teams from various businesses to operate mass vaccination centers in Kobe, Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Sendai, providing over 870,000 vaccinations in total.

Q: How did Rakuten support para athletes in 2021?

A: In 2021, para athletes from Rakuten's social business performed remarkably on the world stage, inspiring and exciting many. This support demonstrated Rakuten's commitment to empowering individuals through sports.

Q: What technological advancements did Rakuten focus on in 2021?

A: Rakuten actively trained experts and adopted new technologies to enhance convenience in people's lives. The company's active participation in tech fields reflects its commitment to innovation and progress.

Q: What are the new services and expansions announced by Rakuten Mobile in 2021?

A: Rakuten Mobile introduced the new service plan, Rakuten Unlimited 6, which garnered positive reception, surpassing 5.1 million subscribers by September. The company also expanded its network to cover 94.3% of Japan's population by October and established Rockten Symphony, offering 4G and 5G infrastructure and platform solutions globally.

Q: How has Rakuten's commerce business evolved in 2021?

A: Rakuten's commerce business has expanded and diversified, with new ventures such as Rakuten Fashion and Rakuten Seiyuunet Super contributing to its growth. The company's leisure-related businesses also experienced increased popularity, showcasing the evolving and strengthening nature of Rakuten's global businesses.

Q: What social and environmental initiatives has Rakuten undertaken in 2021?

A: Rakuten has been actively addressing social issues such as climate change. The company's focus on sustainability and its commitment to a cashless society through Rakuten Fintech initiatives demonstrate its dedication to environmental and social responsibility.

Q: How has Rakuten impacted the work environment and employee engagement in 2021?

A: Despite the significant shifts in work environments, Rakuten employees maintained a positive outlook, organizing and participating in various online and offline efforts. These initiatives aimed to bring smiles to people's faces and create enriching experiences for all involved.

Q: What are Rakuten's future prospects and goals?

A: Rakuten's future prospects involve expanding its horizons by working together as one team to achieve its triple z target and further develop its Rakuten Fintech ecosystem. The company also aims to bring significant changes through alliances and global expansions in the coming years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rakuten's efforts in 2021 have been focused on empowerment, innovation, and sustainability. The company made significant contributions to empowering Japan through vaccination projects and supporting para athletes, while also actively engaging in social issues such as climate change. With the expansion of its commerce business and evolving fintech ecosystem, Rakuten continues to accelerate its growth and adapt to the changing needs of its consumers. The commitment to bringing smiles and creating new experiences illustrates the company's dedication to delivering success while prioritizing sustainability and energy.