Kao EMEA closes offices, sites and Molton Brown stores for company-wide Mental Health Day

Core Insights - Kao Corporation will implement a company-wide Mental Health Day on Blue Monday, January 19, 2026, with all EMEA offices, UK production site, and Molton Brown stores closed to allow employees to focus on their mental health [1] - The Germany production site will observe its Mental Health Day on February 16, 2026 [1] Group 1: Mental Health Initiatives - The Mental Health Day is part of Kao EMEA's ongoing mental health and wellbeing program, which includes various initiatives to support mental health and create a safe workplace [2] - Employees have access to practical programs offering mental health resources and support, as well as a trained network of mental health first aiders across the organization [4] - The company emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health to foster open dialogue, reduce stigma, and create an inclusive environment [2][4] Group 2: Leadership Statements - Gabriele Arend, Vice President of HCD at Kao EMEA, stated that employee wellbeing is fundamental to the company's identity and operations, highlighting the importance of setting aside time for rest and reflection [2] - Elizaveta Khadjinova, senior manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Kao EMEA, reinforced the belief that prioritizing mental health is essential for creating an environment where employees can be their authentic selves [2]