Achieving Both Business and Sustainability Through Stuffing Material That Consumers Rarely See

In the Prize Business Division of Bandai Spirits Co., Ltd., we are moving forward with the Recycled Cotton Project, an initiative to replace the stuffing material used in plush prize products with recycled cotton alternatives derived from PET bottles. The initiative began when members of the division started to explore ways we could contribute to the environment through our business operations, given that sewn products account for a significant portion of our product lineup. As a result, we concluded that by focusing on the stuffing material, which customers rarely see, rather than the outer fabric, we could switch a material used in large quantities to a more environmentally responsible one while minimizing any impact on product appeal and quality.
The introduction of recycled cotton was not straightforward, as it is slightly darker than conventional cotton and differs in elasticity. Depending on the color and shape of the plush toy, these differences can affect its appearance and ability to retain its shape during transport. We therefore sourced multiple types of cotton stuffing alternatives and carefully evaluated each one for compatibility with individual products. In addition, it was necessary for partner factories to establish management systems, such as separating storage locations, mixing equipment, and workflows, to prevent conventional cotton from mixing with the recycled alternative.
Since its trial introduction in 2020, the Recycled Cotton Project has steadily expanded. In FY2026.3, recycled cotton alternatives equivalent to 45.5 million PET bottles were used in 378 products, totaling more than 10 million units. We are increasing the number and volume of products incorporating recycled cotton alter- natives and aim to expand the initiative even further in the future. Furthermore, through information sharing at sustainability promotion meetings held within the Toys and Hobby Unit, the initiative is also being expanded to other Group departments that handle sewn products.
At the moment, we have still not introduced recycled cotton alternatives at all our partner factories. However, we are expanding its adoption to additional factories based on the results achieved at those where it has already been introduced. We aim to increase the proportion of sewn products using recycled cotton to as close to 100% as possible. Because the stuffing is not visible to consumers, we can naturally incorporate environmental considerations while maintaining product quality. As an initiative that balances business and sustainability, we will continue to expand the use of recycled cotton.