#Japan #Tokyo #Annual Meeting #Pal System

Overview of the 44th Annual General Meeting of Pal System

On June 22, the Pal System Union, headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, convened its 44th annual general meeting at the Hotel Metropolitan in Toshima, Tokyo. During this meeting, two significant proposals were presented and unanimously approved by the delegates.

Key Proposals and Approvals

The meeting addressed two main items: the approval of the 2025 business report, financial statements, and surplus allocation proposal, as well as the decision on the 2026 business plan and budget. Both proposals received unanimous approval from the attendees, which included 53 in-person and two proxy votes.

Business Performance in 2025

In terms of business performance for the year 2025, Pal System faced challenges including rising prices and rice shortages. However, the organization managed to maintain a solid supply volume, largely due to strong demand in product categories such as rice, eggs, and meal kits. The total supply volume reached ¥187.3 billion, marking a 3.4% increase compared to the previous year and surpassing the budget by 1.8%. Overall, the ordinary surplus increased by ¥1.35 billion, which reflects an ongoing growth trend within the cooperative.

Further breakdown revealed that the supply volume to member organizations amounted to ¥259.7 billion, also a 3.4% increase year-on-year.

Enhancements in User Experience

To improve user engagement, Pal System has initiated updates to its catalog offerings and the operation of its community site, “Palmo!” These enhancements aim to provide tailored information based on user attributes and history. Additionally, in response to the rising awareness of human rights, the organization introduced its “Pal System Human Rights Policy” while also engaging in messaging campaigns related to the International Year of Cooperatives and the commemoration of 80 years since the atomic bombing and the end of World War II.

Focus for 2026

Looking ahead to 2026, Pal System aims to implement its 9th Mid-term Plan (FY2024 - FY2026), focusing on business innovation, organizational development, and cooperative solidarity. The organization is committed to accelerating environmental initiatives and responding to diverse consumer needs, with a goal of transforming into a sustainable business model.

The planned budget for FY2026 forecasts a supply volume of ¥190 billion, which represents a 1.4% increase from the previous year, as well as an ordinary surplus of ¥500 million, indicating a strong and responsible financial outlook.

Chairperson’s Closing Remarks

During the meeting, Director-General Atsuyuki Shibusawa expressed his gratitude for the support from the community, stating, “In the face of the complex situations in the Middle East and Ukraine, we are acutely aware of the societal expectations placed upon Pal System. We take today's discussions seriously and aspire towards further growth moving forward.”

Conclusion

The 44th annual general meeting was not just a formal gathering but a reflection of Pal System's commitment to transparency and responsiveness to its members' needs and societal changes. As it progresses into the next fiscal year, the organization remains focused on enhancing its operational practices while upholding its responsibilities towards the community and environment.