JackR, NH instantly confirms a Premium Y seat if purchasing the right Economy fare. Upgrade to J cabin can be done with miles.
Drewcwsj, if your company is willing to pay for a fare that gets a Premium Y seat instantly confirmed (based on availability), then go with NH. I think meal service on NH is better. You get Hagen-Doz ice cream as desert both ex-USA and ex-NRT transpacific flights!