Calbee changed its snack packages to black and white in late May because Middle East tensions disrupted ink supplies. Supply concerns have now eased, and products will gradually return to full-color packaging.

Samsung Electronics’ second-quarter operating profit rose nearly nineteenfold, driven by strong demand for AI memory chips.

The Bangkok motor show was held recently, highlighting energy-saving vehicles. Chinese brands have increased their sales with low-cost electric vehicles.

Lawson plans to upgrade its 100 stores to support disaster response by 2030. The convenience store chain will prepare for disasters, including a major earthquake off Japan.

McDonald’s Japan ran a campaign selling Happy Meals with Pokemon cards. However, some customers purchased them in bulk only to resell the cards.

A Japanese mega-bank plans to abolish its seniority-based system. At present, salaries and positions rise with the length of service. This practice, along with the lifetime employment system, was established during the economic boom.

The “Isn’t it OK to sit down?” project is run by Tokyo-area volunteers. It aims to improve work conditions for Japan’s customer service employees. Labor ministry regulations require businesses to provide chairs for workers.