#Oikura #Market Enterprise #Imari City

Imari City and Market Enterprise Team Up for Sustainable Reuse Initiatives

Imari City, located in Saga Prefecture, is embracing a new chapter in sustainable waste management as it partners with Market Enterprise for a significant reuse initiative. Beginning on March 27, 2026, this collaboration aims to tackle waste reduction by promoting the reuse of unwanted items through the innovative platform, Oikura.

Background and Rationale

In recent years, Imari City has been proactive in addressing environmental issues, implementing various initiatives to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Efforts have included the provision of information on item exchanges, partnerships for free collections of second-hand clothing, food drives, and organizing recycling fairs. However, the city has recognized the need for further action, particularly as many usable items end up as waste and the number of elderly households requiring assistance with bulky item disposal increases.

To respond to these challenges, the city has explored new reuse strategies aimed at raising awareness among residents. On the other hand, Market Enterprise has built a reputation for its commitment to sustainability as a leading online reuse business. With a vision focused on creating an optimized marketplace for a sustainable society, the company has engaged in various initiatives, including participation in the Public-Private Partnership for Regional Revitalization and donation programs.

The convergence of Imari City's needs and Market Enterprise's expertise led to the creation of the Oikura platform-based initiative, aiming for a circular economy.

What is Oikura?

Oikura is a reuse platform operated by Market Enterprise that allows individuals to sell unwanted items conveniently. Users can submit requests for item valuations through Oikura, which enables simultaneous evaluation from multiple affiliated reuse shops across Japan. The ease and efficiency of this service have attracted around 1.55 million users (as of June 2025), making it a popular choice for those looking to sell second-hand goods.

Addressing Imari City's Challenges with Oikura

In Imari City, residents traditionally manage the disposal of bulky waste by transporting items to designated collection points or clean centers. This process often poses challenges, especially for large or heavy items that require physically demanding effort. Oikura addresses this issue by offering on-site valuation and pickup services, allowing residents to sell bulky items without the burden of transport.

Moreover, the platform caters to electronic appliances regulated under the Recycling Act, providing potential buyers for usable items such as refrigerators and washing machines. With Oikura, residents can complete the selling process on the same day they initiate the request.

Importantly, there are no costs incurred by the city or its residents for utilizing this service, streamlining the waste management process significantly.

Looking Ahead

Following the official launch on March 27 at 3:30 PM, information regarding Oikura will be made available on Imari City's website, facilitating direct application for item valuations. The collaboration is expected to invigorate the secondary market, accelerate the realization of a circular economy, and even reduce the waste processing burden on local governments.

By promoting the concept of reuse over disposal, the initiative also aims to instill a refreshed understanding of environmental responsibility among residents. Citizens will have an accessible and effective method for recycling unwanted items, contributing to a significant shift in waste management culture.

This comprehensive public-private collaboration represents a pivotal step towards addressing both environmental and economic challenges associated with waste and resource management in Imari City.

About Imari City

Situated in the western part of Saga Prefecture, Imari City is approximately 50 kilometers west of Saga City. It benefits from excellent connectivity to three major airports within a one-hour radius and hosts one of the foremost international container terminals in Kyushu, serving as a gateway to Asia. Historically known for its contributions to the