Kanmaki Town Starts Collaboration with Oikura for Reuse Business Initiative

Kanmaki Town Partners with Oikura for Sustainable Reuse Initiative

Kanmaki Town, led by Mayor Masato Sakamoto, has announced that it will begin a partnership with Market Enterprise Co., Ltd., based in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, to address local challenges through a new reuse initiative. This collaboration, utilizing Market Enterprise's reuse platform "Oikura", is set to commence on January 13, 2026. Together, they aim to create a system that encourages the reuse of unwanted goods, thereby contributing to waste reduction and the establishment of a circular economy in the community.

Background and Context

In its efforts towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Kanmaki Town has already implemented various initiatives, including the collection of used cooking oil and other recyclable materials. However, many residents tend to dispose of large waste items, increasing the burden of garbage disposal costs. The town identified that a significant amount of reusable items were being discarded as garbage, leading them to explore reuse initiatives that could raise awareness and encourage residents to participate in these efforts.

Market Enterprise has been a pioneering force in the reuse industry, operating with the vision of being a "sustainable optimization trading company." The firm has actively participated in public-private partnerships for local revitalization and SDGs initiatives, such as the musical instruments donation program. This synergy between Kanmaki and Market Enterprise, driven by mutual interests in promoting reuse, has led to the realization of this collaboration utilizing the Oikura platform.

Understanding Oikura

Oikura, operated by Market Enterprise, is a comprehensive reuse platform that allows users to evaluate and sell their unwanted items easily. Users can request assessments for multiple items at once, which are then sent to the registered reuse shops across Japan. This convenient method has attracted around 1.55 million users by June 2025, providing a hassle-free selling experience.

Challenges Faced by Kanmaki Town and Solutions via Oikura

Currently, Kanmaki Town charges for bulky item collection through a pre-approval process, requiring residents to transport their items outside their homes. Oikura provides an alternative by offering on-site collection services, making it much simpler to sell large and heavy items without needing to move them outdoors. Additionally, items eligible under the Home Appliance Recycling Law, such as refrigerators or washing machines that are still usable, might also be purchased. Through Oikura, residents can expect quick transactions, even completing sales and exchanges on the same day they request a quote, with no additional burden on municipal costs.

Looking Ahead

On January 13, 2026, at 3:30 PM (the launch time may vary), the information regarding Oikura will be made available on Kanmaki Town's official website. This partnership is anticipated to further activate the secondary market and lead to a reduction in waste disposal across the town, positively impacting local waste management costs. As the recognition of easy resale options grows among residents, this initiative will promote the practice of reuse over disposal, responding to the evolving needs regarding waste management. This collaborative public-private engagement seeks to address both social and economic challenges associated with forming a sustainable circular economy.

About Kanmaki Town

Kanmaki Town is situated in the western part of the Nara Basin, characterized by its rich natural environment, including the flowing Katsushika River and Takigawa River. The town borders Oji Town to the north, Kawai Town to the east, Hirogawa Town to the south, and Kashiwa City to the west. Historically significant, it was known for its royal stables in ancient times and witnessed battles involving prominent warlords during Japan's feudal era. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2022, the town is noted for the harmonious blend of nature, residential areas, and commercial facilities. Its proximity to Osaka, with a travel time of under an hour via bus and train, has resulted in its growth as a suburban area, peaking in population growth rates historically.

Demographics and Settlement Data

- Population: 20,907 (as of November 30, 2025)
- Households: 10,111 (as of November 30, 2025)
- Area: 6.14 square kilometers (as of November 30, 2025)
- Website: Kanmaki Town Official Site

About Market Enterprise Co., Ltd.

Market Enterprise is focused on internet-based reuse business, with its vision of creating a sustainable society. Established in 2006, the company has seen consistent growth. It was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Mothers in June 2015, moved to the First Section in February 2021, and transitioned to the Prime Market in April 2022. The company has expanded its reuse services, catering to local and international markets, and has seen around 9.4 million users engage with its services. The implementation of the Oikura service in Kanmaki represents one of 295 municipalities across Japan where it has partnered.