Itochu Corporation leads 2027 graduate job brand rankings in Japan

Recent surveys regarding job hunting trends for students graduating in 2027 indicate a strong preference for trading and financial institutions, alongside a rising interest in consumer-facing sectors.

According to a brand ranking by Bunka Hoso Career Partners, Itochu Corporation maintained its top position. The general trading sector showed significant strength, with five companies—Itochu, Marubeni, Sumitomo Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation, and Mitsui & Co.—all appearing in the top 20. The financial sector also saw high engagement, including Nippon Life Insurance and Daiwa Securities Group.

Notably, companies in the food, manufacturing, and entertainment industries saw rank increases. Notable climbers include Bandai, Ajinomoto, Nintendo, Sony, and Toyota Motor Corporation. This shift suggests that as students progress through the selection process, they place higher value on companies with familiar products and services.

Complementary research by Works Japan highlights that students are becoming more selective and specific in their criteria. When deciding on formal applications, students prioritize the ability to perform desired tasks and the alignment of corporate culture. Over 40% of students indicated that clarity regarding specific job duties, rather than just job titles, is essential for their decision-making process.