Global Standard Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture; CEO: Tomoyuki Noguchi) announces the first successful implementation of its 'Circular Welfare Project,' which involves refurbishing and repurposing used pachinko machines donated by companies for use in disability support facilities.
The pachinko machines installed in this initiative were provided by Bring Up Co., Ltd.
After Global Standard conducted safety inspections and refurbishments—including modifications for functional training and recreational use in welfare environments—the machines were installed at Katsuraso, a facility for people with disabilities operated by the social welfare corporation Gunma Sanyukai.
This project has been featured nationwide through reports by NHK's 'Ohayo Nippon' and Kyodo News.
This initiative marks the first instance of a full circular flow: corporate provision, collection, refurbishment, processing, facility installation, and practical utilization. Machines that were destined for disposal have now found a new role in welfare settings, contributing to user engagement and morale.
Transforming Discarded Machines into 'Welfare Power'
Many pachinko machines are retired due to new model replacements. Even if they remain functional, they are often disposed of due to storage and distribution limitations. This project creates new value by repurposing them in welfare facilities, fostering recreation, facilitating physical movement, encouraging interaction among users, and fulfilling corporate social responsibility.
First Implementation in a Disability Support Facility
While previously focused on elderly care facilities, this expansion into a disability support facility opens new possibilities. At Katsuraso, the machines serve as catalysts for recreation and communication, as well as opportunities for engaging physical activity.
Real-world Impact
Staff at Katsuraso reported unexpected results: 'Users who rarely left their rooms are now coming out on their own to play with the functional training pachinko machines,' and 'We see some users coming to play multiple times a day.' This shift from 'forced training' to 'voluntary participation' highlights the project's potential.
Future Outlook
Global Standard plans to continue expanding this initiative across the welfare sector. The company is actively seeking various forms of support, including equipment donations, logistics and collection cooperation, sponsorship for refurbishment costs, and partnerships for CSR and SDG initiatives.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: News