This article introduces recently IPO-listed companies in Japan while highlighting key challenges, business opportunities, industry trends, and unique business models in the Japanese market.
Material Group Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a marketing communications firm specializing in public relations and digital solutions that help companies redefine consumer engagement through strategic storytelling. Founded in 2014, the company has positioned itself as a challenger and innovator, building a business model that integrates traditional PR with full-funnel marketing strategies to address the evolving needs of modern brands.
As of August 2024, Material Group has 282 employees across its Tokyo headquarters and Osaka branch, including a growing number of specialized PR producers and digital consultants. The group operates through three core business segments: PR Consulting, Digital Marketing, and PR Platforms, with subsidiaries including Material Inc., Material Digital Inc., Candlewick Inc., PRAS Inc., and CONNECTED MATERIAL Inc.
Material Group’s unique project-based team structure combines planners, media promoters, and producers to deliver customized communications solutions. Its PR Consulting business forms the backbone of the group, supported by a strong track record of international accolades, such as consecutive wins at Campaign Asia’s “Japan PR Agency of the Year” and awards at Cannes Lions, Spikes Asia, and Clio Awards.
In FY2024 (ending August 2024), the company reported consolidated revenue of ¥5.281 billion, a 13.4% year-over-year increase, with gross profit of ¥3.692 billion (+15.3%) and EBITDA of ¥906 million (+14.1%). The PR Consulting segment contributed 85.6% of group revenue, with Digital Marketing and PR Platform segments accounting for 9.5% and 4.9%, respectively. Growth was driven by increased client acquisition, especially in digital advertising and consulting, and by strategic talent expansion.
For FY2025, the company forecasts consolidated revenue of ¥6.303 billion (+19.4% YoY) and EBITDA of ¥1.114 billion (+22.9% YoY), fueled by continued investment in hiring, digital capabilities, and the integration of acquired businesses. The company aims to elevate its digital marketing operations to a core pillar alongside its PR services and to deepen cross-segment collaboration.
Looking forward, Material Group Inc. plans to lead the transformation of marketing communications in Japan by scaling operations, executing strategic M&A, and fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. Its vision is to ignite passion across diverse voices and challenge conventional norms to create a more engaged and connected society.
| Company Name | The Materials Group, Inc. |
| Headquarters | 1-12-32 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, ARK Mori Building 35th Floor |
| Website | https://materialgroup.jp/ |
| Year of Establishment | 2014/8/18 |
| Listing Date | 2024/3/29 |
| Industry | Service industry |
| Business Overview | Marketing communication support with a focus on PR and digital |
| Representative (CEO) | Sou Aozaki |
| Number of Employees | 282 (2024/8/31) |
| Stock Exchange | Tokyo Stock Exchange Growth |
| Auditor | A&A Partners |
| Lead Underwriter | Nomura Securities |
| Market capitalization (at opening price) | 10,717 million yen |
| PER (at opening price) | 24.35 |
| Major shareholders (Top 3) | •Strategic PR Investment Limited Partnership (61.95%) •10X Investment Ltd.(19.97%) •Saki Baba (5.35%) |
This document has been prepared based on information available at the time of the research. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or correctness of the information provided. This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own verification and due diligence before making any decisions.
Source: Tokyo IPO, Official Website, Yahoo! Finance
