#Japan #Chiba #Pocket Marche #Chiba Disaster #Support Products

Introduction

Rain and Wind Sunshine Corporation, based in Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture, has initiated the sale of support products in response to the severe heavy rains in Chiba Prefecture, which occurred in August 2026. This initiative aims to connect consumers directly with local producers who have suffered significant losses due to flooding. The company's app, Pocket Marche, is one of the largest direct sales platforms in Japan, focusing on bridging the gap between producers and consumers.

Extensive Damage Reported

Following the disaster, Rain and Wind Sunshine conducted interviews with registered producers in the Chiba region to assess the extent of the damages. Reports indicate devastating losses such as flooded fields and nearly complete crop failures. One producer, Tomoya Someya from Chiba City, reported that nearly all of his carrot crop was destroyed due to flooding just before they were to be harvested. Another producer, Takahiro Yoshino from Yachimata City, faced a similar fate with both carrot and peanut crops submerged and likely lost.

Launch of Support Products

To support affected producers, Rain and Wind Sunshine has launched “support products” with a fee of 0% for the sale of these items. This allows consumers to purchase items that directly benefit the farmers. Furthermore, the company is open to discussions with affected producers regarding how to list their support products on the platform. By purchasing these items, consumers can gain insights into the hardships faced by the producers while also contributing to their recovery.

Link to Support Products Listing: View Here

Background

On August 13, 2026, heavy rains caused widespread devastation, and our team wishes to express condolences to the victims and heartfelt sympathies to those affected. The company's ongoing commitment to supporting producers affected by natural disasters continues through this initiative. In response to the Chiba heavy rains, the team is conducting further assessments to determine what additional support may be necessary.

Case Studies of Affected Producers

• - Tomoya Someya, Chiba City: He reported that his carrots, which should have yielded about 12 tons, were wiped out just before harvest, leading to estimated damages of around 4.5 million yen. With hopes to replant, he faces difficulties in acquiring seeds due to market demand.

• - Takahiro Yoshino, Yachimata City: His fields suffered severe water inundation with damages projected to be approximately 3.2 million yen, affecting both carrot and peanut crops. His situation remains challenging as he battles ongoing water issues and considers replanting, unsure of how much they can recover.

Details of Support Products

The company has designed three categories of support items to cater to the specific conditions and needs of the affected producers:
1. Reconstruction Support Ticket: This allows contributions to producers whose operations are currently halted. Tickets are available in various price tiers, and no physical goods are exchanged.

2. Eat to Support Products: These are regular products from producers who can still fulfill shipping orders. Purchasing food items allows consumers to support local farmers effortlessly.

3. Eat to Support & Cheer Pricing Products: Consumers can pay an additional amount to support farmers beyond the regular price of the items. Regardless of the chosen price, the quantity and quality remain consistent.

Link to Support Products Listing: View Here

About Pocket Marche

Pocket Marche is a direct sales platform connecting more than 9,200 listed producers with consumers across Japan. Founded from the experiences of CEO Hiroyuki Takahashi, who witnessed the crucial post-disaster interactions between urban and rural communities, the platform promotes the philosophy of deepening relationships built through food. It not only facilitates transactions but also encourages direct communication, enhancing the everyday experiences of both producers and customers. Over 92 million connections have been made through the platform since its inception.

Company Overview

Rain and Wind Sunshine Corporation aims to foster connections between urban and rural communities to support sustainable development and ensure vibrant local economies in Japan. The corporation operates in multiple sectors, involving food, travel, and municipal support services.

• - Name: Rain and Wind Sunshine Corporation
• - Representative: Hiroyuki Takahashi
• - Location: Tokyo Office, Chiyoda-ku, Hirakawacho 2-5-3, MIDORI.so NAGATACHO 4F
• - Website: Visit Here