#Sustainability #Japan #Chuo-ku #Yamato Holdings #Kokubu Group

Partnership Agreement for Sustainable Community

On January 15, 2026, two prominent companies, Kokubu Group and Yamato Holdings, forged a groundbreaking partnership aimed at promoting sustainable communities. This agreement is pivotal for both organizations in addressing societal issues within Japan, especially concerning the food supply chain. The collaboration seeks to utilize each company's strengths and resources, aligning them towards a common goal of fostering a sustainable local society.

Objective of the Agreement

The primary aim of this partnership is to leverage operational strengths and resources to develop a distribution platform that connects food production with consumers. By doing so, both companies aspire to tackle various social challenges encountered at the local level, enhancing the overall value of their businesses through the food supply chain.

Background

Kokubu Group has been a leader in creating value through collaboration with local businesses, producers, municipalities, and educational institutions. Their ongoing efforts have led to the development and promotion of unique regional products and services, providing significant additions to both domestic and international markets. Their 12th Long-Term Management Plan, initiated in 2026, is titled “Food Value Cycle Platformer” and emphasizes the establishment of a revolutionary food supply chain.

Conversely, Yamato Group has consistently contributed to the realization of a prosperous society through their logistics services. Starting April 2024, they will launch their Medium-Term Management Plan titled “Sustainability Transformation 2030 – 1st Stage”, aiming to evolve into a value-creating corporate entity that contributes to a sustainable future.

Key Cooperation and Collaboration

The partnership agreement outlines several key focus areas aimed at enhancing the supply chain:
1. Improving convenience for both consumers and producers.
2. Supporting shopping environments for small commercial areas and aiding shopping-challenged individuals.
3. Optimizing logistics to enhance value both domestically and internationally.
4. Creating value through mutual utilization of resources such as hubs, functions, and networks.
5. Engaging in other initiatives determined by collaborative discussions between the two companies.

Overview of Initiatives

This partnership will concentrate on five collaborative areas, using the strengths and resources of both companies to build a platform connecting producers and consumers effectively:

• - Collective Area 1: Establishing mobile and fixed sales locations in regions where shopping is difficult.
• - Collective Area 2: Developing concentrated production centers utilizing local sales offices and facilities.
• - Collective Area 3: Expanding food distribution across distant regions using freight aircraft and Yamato's courier network.
• - Collective Area 4: Setting up urban processing centers and inventory hubs as consumer-oriented bases.
• - Collective Area 5: Creating a direct market that connects producers with retailers and consumers.

By harnessing the unique capabilities of both Kokubu and Yamato, these initiatives aim to revolutionize the local food supply chain, transforming how products reach consumers while addressing regional needs effectively. The synergy created from this partnership is expected to deliver substantial benefits, fostering a sustainable future for communities across Japan. As both companies embark on this exciting journey together, the outcomes hold significant promise, not just for the organizations but for society as a whole.