In a remarkable partnership aimed at highlighting the unique charm of Sakai Town in Ibaraki Prefecture, United Arrows and the local town government have launched a series of collaborative initiatives that fuse fashion and community spirit. This ongoing project stems from a comprehensive partnership signed in 2024, with the goal of dynamically showcasing the region's attractions through the lens of fashion. Recently, they introduced three exciting initiatives that promise to captivate both locals and visitors alike.
Initiative 1: Custom Staff T-Shirts for the Sakai Fireworks Festival
One of the highlights this year is the design and creation of original T-shirts for the operational staff at the
Tone River Grand Fireworks Festival, scheduled for September 13, 2025. With approximately 350 staff members wearing these shirts, the design features a striking illustration by the talented artist
Akira Kaneyasu, capturing the celebratory essence of the festival alongside the allure of the Sakai Town. The aim was to create a sense of community among the staff and encourage a feeling of pride by making the shirts not only functional but also highly appealing.
Initiative 2: Refreshing the Staff Uniforms
In another noteworthy move, United Arrows has redesigned the uniforms worn by Sakai Town office staff, specifically, the polo shirts. These new shirts will showcase a unique logo that merges the United Arrows corporate identity with Sakai Town's emblem. The uniforms feature functional materials that dry quickly and can be washed at home, aiming to improve the work environment for staff, while also enhancing the town's image through a modern and stylish presentation.
Initiative 3: Launch of a Healing Facility in Karuizawa
United Arrows has also fulfilled its pledge to establish a wellness facility for locals in
Karuizawa. This sophisticated retreat has been designed with a focus on natural wood interiors, promoting a calming atmosphere for children and families. Designed to host activities such as forest school programs and English camps, the facility provides a serene environment where community members can unwind, learn, and grow.
Ensuring Sustainable Community Development
The commitment between United Arrows and Sakai Town goes beyond these three initiatives. Together, they are dedicated to bringing out the best of the local area and promoting it through a variety of engaging content. The collaboration signals a move towards sustainable community development, emphasizing the importance of bolstering local economies through thoughtful and innovative approaches.
Strategic Community Engagement
With its proximity to Tokyo—just a 1.5-hour drive—Sakai Town has become a beacon for new residents, capitalizing on its generous support systems for families and its recognition for groundbreaking initiatives like the introduction of autonomous buses. United Arrows, utilizing its unique editorial expertise originating from the fashion selection industry, serves as a 'cheer squad' for the town, weaving together a model for regional revitalization that stands out.
Project Origins
The initial phase of this partnership saw the establishment of the
UA Stand at the Sakai Road Station with famous architect Kunio Kameki’s collaboration. This stand acts as an informational hub that not only sells local goods, including original food and drink products but also serves as a tourist information center. There are plans for additional design endeavors, including uniforms for local schools and vehicle wraps for public transportation, reinforcing the township's commitment to uplifting its public and educational environments.
With a custom logo that creatively merges the United Arrows brand with the symbolic emblem of Sakai Town, this project promises to engage the community, cultivate local pride, and inspire others. The collaboration exemplifies how fashion can be employed as a tool for positive community transformation, encouraging both residents and visitors to embrace the unique lifestyle that Sakai Town has to offer. As the partnership progresses, excitement builds for what is to come, as both entities continue to create and share the vibrancy of Sakai through a fashionable lens.