In August 1974, the Hinomaru Kai (Rising Sun Flag Association) was formed at the suggestion of the company’s distributors. Named after the NSG corporate logo resembling Japan’s flag, the association addressed issues relating to logistics and sales strategy and improving training of distributors. In 1975, NSG turned a loss for the first time after the war and started a voluntary retirement program in the following year. In response, the Hinomaru Kai held a rally to support NSG and agreed to hire former NSG workers looking for employment.