The continuing development of Japan and its capital relies on the contribution of companies that prioritise the public good. Hulic is the fourth-largest Japanese real estate company that specialises in leasing medium-sized office buildings in Tokyo. By focusing on the needs of its tenants, Hulic has become a significant contributor to urban and national economic growth. "Because 99 per cent of Japanese businesses are small- and mid-sized companies and high corporate taxes prevent large-sized global companies from increasing their base in Tokyo, we stay in the mid-sized office market," says a Hulic spokesman. Hulic's tenants enjoy easy access to its buildings, with 88 per cent of its portfolio located in Tokyo's top five districts. Most of these buildings are within walking distance of a metro rail station. This proximity has resulted in Hulic's super-low vacancy rate of 0.4 per cent for all of its 161 properties. The company is investing aggressively to increase leasing spaces. Hulic's market capitalisation amount has grown 13 times since its initial public offering in 2008. Hulic's buildings are engineered to stand up to intensity 7 earthquakes on the Japan Meteorological Agency scale. The company has also collaborated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on a device for natural ventilation and lighting, which enables the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions by more than 40 per cent per building compared to previous technology. Hulic has also embarked on solar power generation activities in abandoned areas near the Fukushima nuclear plant that could provide extremely inexpensive electricity for its tenants. The company looks to replicate these activities in Japan's rural areas. Dedicated to contributing to society, Hulic has expanded into senior care facilities. With 18 nursing homes in its portfolio, the company is looking to develop opportunities in this sector by working with partners in Southeast Asia. Hulic www.hulic.co.jp
