#Japan #Saitama #Fukaya #Tokushimaru #Hars

Introduction

In a groundbreaking initiative, the mobile supermarket 'Tokushimaru', a subsidiary of Oisix Co., Ltd., is set to open in Saitama's Fukaya City and Yorii Town on August 25, 2026. This project, aimed at supporting local communities and addressing the difficulties faced by seniors in grocery shopping, marks a significant collaboration with local supermarket chain Hars.

Partnership Details

Oisix, based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, operates Tokushimaru, which has established partnerships with over 140 local supermarkets nationwide, deploying about 1,200 mobile units as of July 2026. The collaboration with Hars will not only expand the availability of essential food items but also strengthen community-based safety measures.

Adding to this, Tokushimaru and Hars are set to sign a 'Community Monitoring Agreement' with Fukaya City on August 10, 2026. This agreement aims to facilitate swift communication with local authorities whenever unusual behavior is detected in the area, enhancing the support network for vulnerable residents.


Addressing Local Needs

As Japan grapples with an aging population, it's reported that over 9 million individuals struggle with grocery shopping. Tokushimaru aims to tackle this pressing issue by delivering fresh food directly to residents' doorsteps, providing not only daily necessities but also the joy of shopping where customers can choose what they want. The unique face-to-face sales approach encourages engagement and establishes Tokushimaru as a daily source of support in the community.

The mobile supermarket travels to neighborhoods twice a week, allowing customers the convenience of on-the-spot purchases without needing prior registration. It offers a wide range of products, from fruits and vegetables to daily essentials, with approximately 400 varieties onboard and 1,200 individual items available for sale.

Importance of the Monitoring Agreement

The Monitoring Agreement signed between Hars and Fukaya City illustrates the deepening commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of elderly community members. Various stakeholders, including municipal institutions and local businesses, are joining forces to foster a secure environment for residents. Mayor Susumu Kojima emphasizes that this collaboration will not only streamline the identification of potential risks but also serve as a model of compassionate service provided through the delivery of goods.

Hars CEO Nobuhito Yoneyama expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the long-term efforts made by the company to address local community needs. He stated that the mobile sales initiative came to fruition thanks to the collective efforts of various partners, unlocking the potential to enrich the daily lives of local residents.


Future Prospects

In addition to expanding service areas, Tokushimaru plans to recruit more local sales partners while strengthening ties with supermarkets to increase operational capabilities. The goal remains to establish a robust infrastructure that supports the community and addresses food accessibility issues effectively.

As the concept of shopping evolves amid an aging population, Tokushimaru is committed to responding to these changes with innovative services that not only make groceries accessible but also enhance community bonds, ensuring that essential shopping experiences become a source of joy.

Conclusion

The launch of Tokushimaru in Saitama represents a proactive approach to address food insecurity among elderly residents by fostering local partnerships. With the simultaneous efforts directed towards community safety and engagement, this initiative is poised to create a lasting positive impact, delivering not only food but also friendship and support to the heart of local neighborhoods.

For more information, please contact the Tokushimaru service hotline at 0120-1094-80 (Weekdays from 9 AM to 6 PM) or visit their official website: Tokushimaru.