RISK AND COMPLIANCE

The Risk Management Committee is chaired by the President and CEO, with directors and heads of relevant departments serving as members. Each department has a designated risk management officer who implements control activities for identified risks and explains and reports on these activities to the Risk Management Committee. Furthermore, risks reported or consulted through these channels are consolidated by the Risk Management Committee, and the Chair of the Risk Management Committee reports them to the Board of Directors as necessary, thereby preventing the concealment of risks and ensuring appropriate responses.

To prevent, promptly detect, and rectify misconduct and other scandals, as well as to ensure public trust, the Company has established a whistleblower hotline managed by an external specialized organization, providing a system where employees can consult on risks related to misconduct while ensuring their privacy. In addition, we have established an emergency contact network for each department to ensure that information can be gathered promptly in the event of an incident or accident.
These risk management systems are thoroughly communicated to all employees through regular internal training and the posting of posters in all departments at headquarters and at all stores.

The Company recognizes the importance of protecting personal information and has established a Privacy Policy as its basic policy on personal information protection. In addition, the Company has developed internal regulations for personal information protection and conducts e-learning training twice a year as part of its internal awareness initiatives regarding the handling of personal information. Furthermore, the Internal Audit Department conducts regular audits to ensure the appropriate management of personal information.

The Company has established a crisis management framework to address natural disasters in the areas where it operates. In the event of a disaster, the Company prioritizes the safety of customers and employees and provides prompt support for the restoration of its facilities. In the case of a major natural disaster, the Company establishes an emergency response headquarters to promptly confirm the safety of personnel and assess damage to its facilities, and determines whether to continue or suspend operations based on the extent of such damage, while providing appropriate information to customers.

The Company has established an Occupational Health and Safety Committee with the aim of preventing workplace accidents, promoting employee health, and improving the work environment. The Committee discusses specific issues such as safety management at business locations and employee health and mental care, and works toward their resolution.
In addition, through the implementation of health checkups and stress checks, the Company collaborates with industrial physicians to manage the physical and mental health of employees. The Company also promotes the use of paid leave, thereby supporting employees in achieving a healthy work-life balance.

The Company has established a Food Safety and Hygiene Committee to ensure food safety and hygiene, which is one of the most important aspects of its business operations. The Committee discusses responses to issues, impediments, and challenges related to food safety, and formulates specific plans to ensure food safety and hygiene.
In addition, the Company has developed manuals on food safety and hygiene and ensures that they are communicated to all employees. With the cooperation of external specialized organizations, the Company also conducts regular hygiene audits and takes thorough measures to prevent the occurrence of risks related to food safety and hygiene.