#Japan #Tokyo #Drone Delivery #Alfresa #Disaster Pharmacy

Alfresa Corporation's Commitment to Sustainable Healthcare

Alfresa Corporation, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is a social infrastructure company specializing in pharmaceutical distribution. Recently, Alfresa announced that it will make its debut at the 6th Smart City Promotion Expo, which will be held from May 13 to 15, 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight. This event is one of Japan's largest trade shows focusing on smart city initiatives, attracting local government officials from across the country.

Alfresa aims to display its innovative efforts in pharmaceutical supply systems, especially focusing on disaster response mechanisms such as the Container Pharmacy for Disaster Relief and drone-based medical deliveries. This exhibition will serve as a platform for proposals, discussions, and knowledge exchange regarding sustainable pharmaceutical supply models that can function effectively during emergencies.

Background of the Exhibition

In recent years, natural disasters such as heavy rains, typhoons, and earthquakes have exacerbated infrastructure challenges by causing road closures and disruptions in transportation networks. Concurrently, aging populations and depopulation in certain regions pose significant challenges for maintaining a stable supply of pharmaceuticals regardless of the situation, whether regular or emergency. As of April 1, 2024, approximately 51.5% of municipalities in Japan are categorized as depopulated, covering 63.1% of the country's land area. Notably, the elderly population (65 years and older) in these areas represents 39.7%, which significantly exceeds the national average of 28.0%.

In light of these pressing issues, Alfresa has dedicated itself to developing a pharmaceutical supply model that remains operational during both normal and disaster situations. The upcoming exhibition will showcase these initiatives in a tangible manner, fostering dialogue with local governments to explore effective healthcare infrastructure solutions.

Details of Exhibits

Container Pharmacy for Disaster Relief

Alfresa will present a portable pharmaceutical supply hub that can be rapidly deployed to disaster-stricken areas. This system, based on converted cargo containers, is equipped with essential facilities for storage and handling of pharmaceuticals, including refrigeration and power Generation systems. Capable of accommodating around 1,500 types of medications, the unit is designed with security and durability in mind. Additionally, it can continue to function as a support base even after the restoration of lifelines.

Alfresa is committed to strengthening local health systems by partnering with municipalities to establish effective pharmaceutical supply chains during emergencies. The company is also engaged in supporting the development of regional formularies, aiding in the identification of essential medications required in disaster scenarios.

Drone-Based Pharmaceutical Delivery

In collaboration with AeroNext and NEXT DELIVERY, Alfresa has been implementing routine pharmaceutical deliveries using drones in Kawanehon Town, Shizuoka Prefecture. By conducting ongoing operations and evaluations in areas vulnerable to logistical disruptions, the initiative seeks to enhance delivery options that could be leveraged during emergencies.

Alfresa is advancing a new phase of logistics infrastructure by utilizing drones in accordance with established guidelines for pharmaceutical deliveries. Attendees of the expo can expect to see a real drone used for medical deliveries displayed at the Alfresa booth.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: 6th Smart City Promotion Expo (Part of Local Government Week 2026)
• - Dates: May 13-15, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• - Venue: Tokyo Big Sight (West Halls 1-2)
• - Booth: Smart City Promotion Expo (G6-2)
• - Event Website
• - Free Registration

Through its initiatives, Alfresa aims to contribute to local healthcare systems and promote community health by ensuring stable medicine supply and providing solutions for healthcare settings.

About Alfresa Corporation

Since its establishment in October 2004, Alfresa Corporation has been dedicated to supplying medical pharmaceuticals to hospitals and pharmacies while delivering various services that contribute to public health. In addition to medical supplies, the company sources medical instruments, test reagents, and nutritional products from around 1,000 manufacturers, ensuring safe and reliable distribution to healthcare facilities. In recent years, Alfresa has leveraged its network of approximately 170 locations nationwide to support the establishment of regional comprehensive care systems tailored to local needs. Furthermore, the company plays a crucial role in improving operational efficiency and quality of care in the medical field through various information services and solution tools.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: Alfresa Corporation
• - CEO: Yusuke Fukushi
• - Business Focus: Wholesale distribution of medical pharmaceuticals, medical instruments, diagnostic test reagents, nursing supplies, health foods, and general pharmaceuticals
• - Established: October 2004
• - Capital: 4,000 million yen
• - Employee Count: 5,821 (as of March 31, 2025)
• - Headquarters: 7 Kanda Mitodai-cho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-8512
• - Company URL: alfresa.co.jp