Innovative SmaGO Smart Trash Cans Enhance Utsunomiya's New Commercial Hub

SmaGO Smart Cans Boost Efficiency at Utsunomiya's Frespo Market

On March 20, 2026, a new multi-use commercial facility named "Frespo Utsunomiya Market" opened adjacent to the Utsunomiya Central Wholesale Market in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. One highlighted feature of this new establishment is the installation of the eco-friendly IoT smart trash can, SmaGO, developed by Force Tech Co., Ltd. The initiative, spearheaded by Daiwa Lease Co., Ltd., aims to enhance the waste management experience for visitors.

The SmaGO cans are solar-powered and come equipped with an innovative feature that allows them to automatically compress waste to about one-fifth of its original size. Additionally, they notify when they need to be emptied, thus preventing overflow and ensuring that waste collection is efficient. With the installation of SmaGO in the event zones, the facility enhances visitor convenience and contributes to keeping the environment clean by minimizing litter and streamlining waste collection operations.

Background of SmaGO’s Implementation at Frespo Utsunomiya Market

In light of its mission to invigorate the market and establish a facility open to the community, the Utsunomiya Central Wholesale Market has been pursuing the "Revitalization Area Development Project". As part of this initiative, the newly opened Frespo Utsunomiya Market features food, retail, and event capabilities, positioning itself as a new focal point for community interaction and drawing many visitors.

With the anticipated increase in foot traffic, there was rising concern about the larger volume of waste generated from food services and events, which subsequently heightened the cleaning load. To tackle these challenges while ensuring both visitor convenience and efficient clean-up processes, SmaGO cans were deployed. Notably, this installation marks the second implementation of SmaGO by Daiwa Lease, following a successful rollout in the BiVi Shin-Sapporo in Hokkaido.

Details of the SmaGO Smart Trash Can

SmaGO stands for an environmentally conscious approach to waste management, integrating IoT technology for improved operational efficiency. These smart bins operate on solar energy, compressing waste significantly and alerting staff when it's time for collection, thus greatly reducing litter concerns. Furthermore, the bins can be custom-wrapped with designs that raise awareness about waste separation and can attract sponsorships that help cover operational costs. This initiative aligns with at least six of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Examples of SmaGO’s Impact

- Omotesando-Harajuku Area, Tokyo: Reduced collection frequency by approximately 70%.
- Dotonbori Area, Osaka: Cut down litter by about 90%, excluding cigarette butts.

The Frespo Utsunomiya Market Experience

The Frespo Utsunomiya Market leverages the land next to the Utsunomiya Central Wholesale Market, combining specialty shops with locally sourced food, essential daily commerce, and versatile event spaces. Opened on March 20, 2026, the facility serves as a new gathering point where local residents and visitors can connect, enjoy food offerings, and partake in community activities.

With the concept of an “Open Food Landmark,” the market aims to be an inviting space where the community can come together, enhancing the relationship between the market and surrounding neighborhoods.

Future Prospects

Force Tech aims to validate the SmaGO implementation within Frespo Utsunomiya Market, exploring contributions to waste management efficiency in commercial facilities and public spaces. Insights gained from this deployment will inform future installations in other locales to further the integration of smart technology in waste management.

About Force Tech Co., Ltd.

- Company Name: Force Tech Co., Ltd.
- Founded: April 15, 2019
- Location: Otemachi One Tower 6F, 1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
- Representative: Yohei Takemura, CEO
- Business Focus: Introducing SmaGO smart trash cans across Japan to foster environmental initiatives involving cities, businesses, and communities.
- Official Website: Force Tech