Company of the Year Nominees: BBA 2025

Finally, we are thrilled to reveal this year’s nominees for the prestigious Company of the Year award. Celebrating unequivocal excellence, this accolade honours a company whose achievements over the past year have made a meaningful and positive impact—whether for their communities, business partners, or the broader UK–Japan network. From 48 eligible nominations across seven distinguished categories, seven outstanding companies now vie for this coveted title.

Nominees for the Company of the Year Award must demonstrate excellence, innovation, and leadership throughout their organisation in Japan, with a focus on outstanding achievements over the past 12 months. 

In alphabetical order:

AstraZeneca K.K.

AstraZeneca K.K. ranked No.2 in overall pharmaceutical sales and No.1 in oncology in 2024, with three blockbusters among Japan’s top ten. As Official Partner of EXPO 2025, it led six major events, advanced medical DX and RWD utilisation, and earned PRIDE Index Gold & Rainbow certification, exemplifying leadership and innovation.

Baker & McKenzie (Gaikokuho Joint Enterprise)

Now entering the second year of UK Japan Connect (UKJC) - our legal and business forum connecting people, culture and business in Japan and the UK – we have continued to actively drive engagement with government, trade and industry associations, and companies to further strengthen the excellent UK – Japan bilateral relationship.

The British School in Tokyo

As we celebrate 35 years of growth, our mission to provide inclusive, holistic education has led to IB World School status, strong exam results, world-top university placements, and global partnerships. From humble beginnings, we’ve grown to over 1,400 students, 270 staff, two campuses, a thriving international alumni network, and strong partnerships within Japan - positively impacting Japanese society through employment, cultural exchange, and community engagement.

Keechdesign UK Ltd.

Over the past year, Keechdesign has partnered with leading Japanese companies, including Yanmar, JR Central, Morinaga, Heralbony, Yamaha and Epson. With a multidisciplinary approach across design, digital, print, video and research, the company helps these brands tell their stories, promoting Japanese innovation and strengthening global recognition.

Malvern College Tokyo

Malvern College Tokyo achieved the prestigious International Baccalaureate accreditation and several awards after just two years in Japan. The bilingual school for ages 4-18 combines academic rigour, innovation, diversity, sustainability and co-curricular breadth to prepare pupils to thrive globally especially in STEM, literature, sports, music and the arts.

PUSH Japan KK

Creative production for UK music icons such as Fred Again, James Blake, Thom Yorke and Blur's Alex James. Music videos for global and local stars like Ye (fka Kanye West), Yuki Chiba, and OneRepublic. High-profile brand activations for Sam Altman’s World, Nike, and Flight Club. Tokyo Drift-ing with Lando Norris. Viral campaigns. Awards. Our best year yet.

Walk Japan

Walk Japan is Japan’s original specialist walking tour company. In 2025 we welcomed over 6,000 customers across 50 tours, greatly increased farming activities, protected a heritage property, and grew staff to over 160. By combining strong growth with rural revitalisation and cultural stewardship, we set the benchmark for sustainable inbound tourism.

We extend our deepest thanks to this year’s sponsors, whose support makes this celebration possible.