The All Japan Advertising Federation Holds Its Kanazawa Convention ~ From Kanazawa, Thriving with the Hokuriku Shinkansen Opening, Bringing Radiance and Hospitality ~

The conference slogan was "From Kanazawa: The 'Shine' of Advertising and Hospitality for the Five Senses." Approximately 1,200 advertising professionals from across Japan participated. The event featured the presentation of the Zen-Kyoren Saburosuke Suzuki Grand Prize and the Zen-Kyoren Japan Advertising Awards, along with commemorative lectures.

At the ceremony, following the opening declaration by Executive Committee Chairman Matsutaro Fukumitsu (President of Fukumitsuya), Chairman Motoki Takazawa (President of Hokkoku Shimbun) delivered a welcome address.

Akira Ohira, Chairman of the Japan Advertising Federation, stated, "Kanazawa is a shining international city visited by many people from across Japan since the Hokuriku Shinkansen opened, and attracting tourists from overseas. We hope you will experience the imagination vital to advertising through all five senses in this city that inherits tradition and possesses creativity. Furthermore, exchanging views on advertising communication and disseminating information nationwide will deepen the significance of this conference." Guests Governor Masanori Tanimoto of Ishikawa Prefecture and Mayor Yoshiyuki Yamano of Kanazawa City each delivered congratulatory addresses.

Next, the 9th " Zenkyoren Saburosuke Suzuki Grand Prize " and the "Zenkyoren Saburosuke Suzuki Regional Prize" were awarded. The Grand Prize went to the Niigata Nippo Shimbun for its "Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Niigata Project 2014 Unified Campaign."

Katsu Nishigaki, Deputy Manager of the Advertising Department at the Niigata Nippo, accepted the award, stating, "The Niigata Nippo has consistently reported on disasters occurring within the prefecture, including the Chuetsu Earthquake, covering their occurrence, the steps toward recovery, and efforts for the future. We are honored that this campaign, which connects the experiences and lessons of disasters to the future, has been recognized. There is still much we can contribute." He expressed enthusiasm for strengthening activities aimed at solving societal issues.

The Regional Award was presented to the "Fukuoka City Daimyo Elementary School 'Final Graduation Ceremony'" newspaper project (sponsored by various companies and the Nishinippon Shimbun).

Next, the 3rd " Zenkyoren Japan Advertising Award," which annually honors individuals who have contributed to the advancement and development of the advertising industry, was presented. The "Matsushita Award," targeting advertisers, was awarded to Mr. Toshifumi Suzuki (Chairman and CEO, Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.). The "Masariki Award," targeting media and content producers, was awarded to Ms. Hisako Higuchi (Advisor, Japan Ladies Professional Golf Association). The "Yoshida Award," selected from advertising-related companies, was awarded to Mr. Hideya Higashi (Chairman, Sendenkaigi). The "Yamana Award," for creators, was awarded to Mr. Naoshi Kaname (Package Designer, Artist).

Mr. Suzuki expressed his delight, stating, "I am deeply honored to receive such a prestigious award. I aim to grow Seven-Eleven alongside everyone, adapting to the changing times."

Finally, the Sendai Advertising Association introduced Sendai City as the host city for next year's conference.

After the ceremony, author Kosaburo Arashiyama delivered a commemorative lecture titled "Kyoka and Kanazawa," weaving in words left by Kyoka to speak of Kanazawa's splendid past and present.