A message encouraging understanding of male menopause printed on an insert inside the packaging of women’s stockings sold by アツギ became a topic of discussion on social media. The company has updated the information as part of its CSR activities since August 2024.
A text addressing “male menopausal symptoms” was printed on an insert inside the stockings’ packaging, and criticism spread after a purchaser posted a photograph. The text explained that men also experience menopause associated with hormonal changes and conveyed the importance of understanding and support from those around them.
Critics objected to calling for support for men through the packaging of stockings purchased by women, while others recognized the value of promoting understanding of men’s health. Debate arose over アツギ’s intentions and whether it had shown appropriate consideration.
The text at issue was not newly created. As part of an update to アツギ’s CSR activities announced on 21 August 2024, it was the 11th installment of the initiative, under the theme “How to live well with sex hormones,” and was scheduled to be introduced with shipments from late that month.
The awareness initiative is part of a long-running CSR program intended to provide information useful to women’s health and daily life, and the response this time was reportedly unexpected.