Shareholder Benefits in Japan
In Japan, there is a system called “Kabunushi Yūtai” (株主優待), or shareholder benefits.
It allows shareholders who hold a certain number of shares in a company to receive various types of rewards, such as products, gift certificates, discount coupons, or meal vouchers. Through this system, companies aim to encourage long-term shareholders and enhance their corporate image, while investors enjoy tangible rewards beyond dividends in their everyday lives.
However, not all companies offer shareholder benefits, and the conditions for eligibility—such as the minimum number of shares or the required holding period—vary by company.
Personally, I usually invest based on a company’s growth potential and reliability, but if a company offers attractive shareholder benefits and has a trustworthy reputation, I sometimes buy its shares for the benefits themselves.
LION Corporation
LION Corporation is one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of daily necessities, producing and selling a wide range of products such as detergents, oral care products, pharmaceuticals, hygiene items, and pet supplies. Founded in 1891 and incorporated in 1918, the company operates under the corporate slogan “Kyou wo aisuru (今日を愛する。– Love Today)”, continuously developing products that contribute to healthier and more comfortable lifestyles for over a century.
Starting with the production of soap and toothpaste, LION has grown into a major global company with more than 20 domestic and overseas bases. As of the end of 2024, its capital is approximately 34.4 billion yen, and consolidated sales amount to 412.9 billion yen (IFRS basis).
LION’s well-known brands include:
“KireiKirei(キレイキレイ)” hand soap,
“Clinica(クリニカ)” and “Systema(システマ)” oral care lines,
“NONIO” toothpaste and toothbrushes,
the “Top” and “NANOX” laundry detergent series,
the pain reliever “Bufferin”,
and the cooling leg sheets “Kyusoku Jikan(休足時間)”.
From brushing my teeth in the morning to going to bed at night, I naturally use LION products throughout my daily routine. It is a brand that I encounter constantly and trust deeply, and because its shareholder benefits are both practical and appealing, I continue to hold shares of LION Corporation.
LION Corporation Shareholder Benefit Conditions
●Record Date: December
●Benefit Details: Company products (daily necessities)
●Eligibility: Continuous holding of 100 or more shares for at least one year
(Registered under the same shareholder number for three consecutive record dates in June and December)
LION Corporation’s shareholder benefit program is designed for long-term investors,
allowing them to receive a set of daily-use products made and sold by the company.
So far, I’ve mostly received newly released products as part of the benefit.
Although it’s offered only once a year, the requirement of just 100 shares makes it affordable,
and I really appreciate that the gifts are practical items like toothpaste and detergent that I use every day.
※Information as of the date of this post.
LION Corporation Shareholder Benefit
Both shareholder benefits and dividends are usually reflected about two to three months after the record date.
This shareholder benefit package arrived on March 7, and the shipping label clearly indicated “New Product Introduction Set (Shareholder Benefit)”, making it easy to recognize.
The box featured LION Corporation’s slogan, “Kyou wo aisuru (今日を愛する。– Love Today)”, with a simple and charming design that perfectly matched the brand’s image.
When I opened the box, I found a thank-you letter to shareholders along with a brochure introducing Lion Corporation’s newly released products.
The brochure included not only brand-new items but also renewed versions of popular existing ones. Each product was described in detail, highlighting its key features and improvements — giving a clear sense of Lion’s commitment to research, development, and quality enhancement.
In particular, the letter invited shareholders to try the products and share their impressions through an online survey link.
It was impressive to see how the company actively seeks feedback from its shareholders and incorporates their opinions into future product development, showing genuine care beyond a simple shareholder gift.
Here are the items included in the shareholder benefit daily goods set from LION Corporation.
The package mainly featured recently released products, including “KireiKirei” antibacterial wet wipes and hand soap, the “NANOX” laundry detergent, “Systema” toothpaste, and the “Airis” fabric softener.
I always carry the KireiKirei antibacterial wipes in my bag, which are very convenient for cleaning hands or items while outside. The hand soap is placed near the kitchen sink and washbasin, and I use it every day when washing my hands. Both items not only clean effectively but also provide antibacterial and antiviral protection, making them reliable for daily hygiene.
The new NANOX detergent is said to have the strongest cleaning and deodorizing power in LION’s history. It also provides antibacterial effects, virus removal, washing tub odor control, and damage care for fabrics.
Since toothpaste is a product I use multiple times every day, I found the Systema toothpaste particularly practical and even helpful for saving on daily expenses.
■LION Corporation
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