#Japan #Tokyo #circular economy #CLAS #SBI Shinsei Bank

CLAS and SBI Shinsei Bank: A Partnership for a Sustainable Future

CLAS, a Tokyo-based company reshaping the furniture and appliance rental business, has successfully secured a growth support loan from SBI Shinsei Bank. This collaboration not only strengthens their operational capacity but also marks a significant step towards enhancing their circular economy initiatives.

Company Vision and Offerings

CLAS operates under the vision of "living freely and lightly," and specializes in a variety of services designed for both individuals and corporations. Among its notable offerings is the subscription service for furniture and appliances known as CLAS, which allows users to rent products on a monthly basis. This innovative approach provides customers with the freedom to choose among borrowing, returning, or purchasing items, thus transforming traditional consumer behavior.

The company also offers corporate solutions through CLAS Biz, which assists businesses in building and relocating offices, as well as CLAS Home Staging, a service that supports the swift sale of real estate via expert interior design.

Commitment to Sustainability

One of the most compelling aspects of CLAS’s offerings is its commitment to the environment. The company not only seeks to deliver goods but does so in a way that reduces waste through the repair and cleaning of returned items, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and overall waste. Their efforts have been acknowledged by the Ministry of the Environment in Japan, which indicated that CLAS’s model can reduce CO2 emissions by 36% and waste generation by 38% compared to traditional sales methods.

By revitalizing previously used items, CLAS plays an essential role in the circular economy, helping to build a sustainable lifestyle that resonates with consumers increasingly concerned about environmental impacts.

Partnership with SBI Shinsei Bank

The recent financial backing from SBI Shinsei Bank reflects the growing recognition of the social significance and sustainability of CLAS’s business model. This partnership will enable CLAS to widen its operations and further embed its services into various regional markets. Experts from SBI Shinsei Bank have praised the company's innovative approach to the circular economy and the high standards of operation it maintains.

Tomohisa Yokomachi, Deputy Manager of the Venture Business Division at SBI Shinsei Bank, stated, "It is an honor to be involved in supporting CLAS’s growth. Their unique vision and sophisticated operations signal an important advancement in achieving a sustainable, circular economy."

Future Growth and Objectives

The flexibility of the growth support loan allows for a wide range of uses, providing CLAS with a robust tool for implementing its expansion strategy. The loan aims not just to enhance inventory but also to support various strategic initiatives aimed at building a circular ecosystem for durable consumer goods.

CLAS is determined to accelerate its sustainability goals and to comfortably deliver its services to a broader audience. The company aims to strengthen its model in cooperation with various partners within the SBI Group, ensuring that their mission to contribute to a sustainable society remains at the forefront of their operations.

With plans to expand its services across regions, including current operations in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo, CLAS seeks to transform the consumer experience into one that is not just convenient but also responsible. The firm remains committed to reducing waste and promoting a life where individuals can live freely and sustainably.

Conclusion

Through its partnership with SBI Shinsei Bank, CLAS is poised to make significant strides in its mission to cultivate a sustainable circular economy. With continued support and innovation, they are not only setting a benchmark in the furniture and appliance rental industry but also paving the way for a future where sustainability is a priority for all consumers.