Who qualifies for Nojima’s 400,000-yen starting monthly salary?

According to reports, the offer applies from April 2026 to select in-house part-timers who are hired as new graduates. It targets high-performing staff already familiar with store operations. The level is described as among Japan’s highest entry pay in retail, signaling strong competition for frontline talent.

How could this move affect Japan retail wages?

It raises the reference point for entry-level pay and could nudge peers to respond, especially in urban markets. If more chains match, frontline labor costs will rise across the sector. Retailers will need better productivity, stronger mix, or selective price adjustments to protect margins while retaining talent.

What is MIRAI ROBO SQUARE and why is it important?

MIRAI ROBO SQUARE is a new robot showroom opening on February 19. It will demo cleaning, logistics, and service robots for businesses, while also welcoming general visitors. The goal is to build a B2B pipeline, sell integrated solutions, and grow recurring service revenue beyond consumer electronics sales.

What should investors watch in 2026?

Focus on the April 2026 cohort’s productivity ramp, retention, and service metrics. Track labor-cost ratios, sales per employee, and attachment rates for warranties and services. For robotics, watch pilot-to-deployment conversion, service contract attach rates, and gross margin trends to gauge scaling potential and earnings quality.

Global Market Insights

Nojima February 12: 400k-Yen Graduate Pay, Robot Push Signal Wage Inflation

ByDanny Kontos February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

Nojima 400,000 yen starting s is the headline move that could reshape Japan retail wages. From April 2026, the company will offer a 400,000-yen starting monthly salary to select in-house part-timers who join as graduates. This raises the bar on entry pay and may pressure rivals’ labor budgets. At the same time, Nojima plans to open MIRAI ROBO SQUARE on February 19, a robot showroom aimed at B2B demand. We explain how both steps could influence costs, growth, and investor expectations in Japan.