“equalto” is a brand originated from social contribution activities.
Manufacturing involves a number of positively motivated and highly capable people, given an equal opportunity to achieve excellence in their fields of expertise despite differences in gender, nationality, or physical attributes. Unfortunately, however, working environments are not always suitable and supportive for everyone with different needs.
In particular, those with physical disabilities in Japan, despite continuous employment support from the government, are not getting the right treatment they deserve even though they are fully devoted to creating products with the finest quality. Their average monthly wage is only 16,369 yen*1, which is far less than the amount needed for them to be financially independent.
The Equalto Award is a design contest created to support disabled people in the manufacturing industry by showcasing products with practical, barrier-free designs. The winning designs – as well as others gathered from all across Japan – will be put into production and sold commercially.
We aim to make equalto a brand that not only provides high-quality products, but also allows people with disabilities to gain independence and live their best lives.
Sophisticated handicrafts as an embodiment of creativity and ingenuity with continuous employment support ensured will definitely create a new form of manufacturing.
*1 | 2019 Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Survey, Work support continuation support type B business office |
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*2 | The name of the award in 2013 was originally “ART CRAFT DESIGN AWARD.” |