Japanese culture management - rather closed system that is subject to specific laws and traditions. Work for the same company for life here is considered a matter of honor, the employer also adapts flexibly to the needs of the employee as he matures and acquires family.
To fight deflation current Japanese government encourages local businesses to raise salaries as private consumption accounts for 60% of Japan's GDP. For example, the trade union of workers of metallurgical industry is going to demand wage increases of 2% and union workers electronics industry are going to follow the example of their colleagues. However, for Sony's situation is different.
If you believe the original source, Sony may for the first time in ten years review the system of remuneration in the corporation, giving more meaningful material incentive employees who play important roles in the production process, even if they do not occupy leadership positions.