Nippon Chokuhan's Commitment to Kumamoto Earthquake Relief
In the wake of the devastating "Reiwa 8 Kumamoto Earthquake" that struck on July 28, 2026, Nippon Chokuhan Co., Ltd. has stepped forward to aid those affected by providing essential living supplies. This initiative focuses on the communities of Yatsushiro and Uki City in Kumamoto Prefecture, where the impacts of the quake have been profound.
The earthquake registered a severe seismic intensity of 7 in some areas, causing significant damage across Kumamoto. As summer heat poses additional challenges, especially during disaster recovery, the government has been proactive in distributing support supplies that include not only food and water but also items to combat heat. Understanding the urgency of immediate needs, Nippon Chokuhan is committed to delivering products that can provide relief under these conditions.
The company’s CEO, Akitaka Mizutani, has established a long-standing relationship with the Kumamoto region, frequently visiting to engage with local communities. This mission is driven by a heartfelt desire to support those impacted by the earthquake, and during this effort, Mizutani has personally visited the areas to ensure assistance reaches those in need.
Background of the Initiative
Since the onset of the Reiwa 8 Kumamoto Earthquake, Nippon Chokuhan has explored avenues through which it can contribute effectively. Established in 1977, the brand has built a robust catalog of everyday items, including clothing, bedding, hygiene products, and more, all via its comprehensive mail-order system. The timing of this earthquake coincides with the summer season, heightening the risk of heat-related illnesses, prompting local authorities to issue warnings and promote heat prevention measures.
With this in mind, Nippon Chokuhan selected a range of products to address the immediate needs of those affected. The aid package includes cooling mattress pads, high-functional absorbent pants, cooling masks, alcohol gels, and various hygiene and living supplies—with a total of 895 units dispatched to assist residents in recovery.
Details of the Support Supplies
The following items are included in the support initiative:
- - Cooling mattress pads and pillow pads
- - High-functional absorbent pants (innerwear and clothing)
- - Cooling masks
- - Alcohol gels
- - Other essential living supplies
Notably, Nippon Chokuhan has sent a total of 4,000 alcohol gels to ensure that proper hygiene is maintained. These items were strategically distributed from the company’s logistics center to partners in Kumamoto, working in collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure timely delivery to Yatsushiro and Uki City.
Promoting Local Products
In tandem with this supply effort, Nippon Chokuhan has launched a "Kumamoto Support Campaign" on its official EC site. This campaign highlights food and products from Kumamoto, creating opportunities for customers nationwide to appreciate the region's unique offerings. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to continue fostering connections with Kumamoto beyond emergency support.
Nippon Chokuhan has a history of providing products related to Kumamoto, including the famous Kumamoto red beef, thereby ensuring that local products remain accessible and recognized.
The goal is not to limit aid to this temporary measure but to maintain a sustained relationship with the region through both direct support and promotion of Kumamoto's local charm and products.
A Message from the CEO
Akiharu Mizutani, President of Nippon Chokuhan Co., Ltd., expresses, "I extend my sincere condolences to everyone affected by the Reiwa 8 Kumamoto Earthquake. Over the years, I have visited Kumamoto multiple times, forging connections with its people. In light of this catastrophe, I reflected on what we can do and decided to provide essential living supplies that we offer. I hope these items can help ease the struggles of those affected during this challenging time and that all residents of Kumamoto quickly reclaim their peace of mind and comfort."
Looking Forward
As a company that thrives on delivering products, Nippon Chokuhan aims to foster meaningful connections with local communities by delivering what is essential during times of need. Transitioning from a mail-order service to a comprehensive service provider, the company emphasizes the importance of leveraging its strengths in procurement, logistics, and customer engagement in ways that serve the community effectively.
In future support efforts, Nippon Chokuhan is committed to not merely delivering supplies, but actively assessing local conditions to determine the most effective ways to offer assistance. Additionally, the initiative to introduce and sell products linked to Kumamoto's culture and culinary delights will continue, ensuring the region's heritage remains alive across Japan.
By continually exploring innovative interactions with society as a comprehensive service provider, Nippon Chokuhan will pave the way toward building stronger community ties, maximizing impact through their vast array of products and services.
Company Overview
- - Company Name: Nippon Chokuhan Co., Ltd.
- - Location: 3-20-5 Toranomon, Minato Ward, Tokyo
- - CEO: Akitaka Mizutani
- - Established: October 1977
- - Business Activities: Comprehensive services (mail-order, content planning, advertising/promotional support, etc.)
- - Website: Nippon Chokuhan