Sun Fresh Group and Akita Prefecture Collaboration
In an exciting development for both the agricultural sector and consumers, Sun Fresh Group Holdings Co., Ltd. has entered into a collaboration agreement with Akita Prefecture aimed at expanding the market for locally produced fruits. The agreement was officially signed on May 14, 2026, by Akita Governor Kenta Suzuki and Sun Fresh Group President Akiko Ochiai.
Purpose of the Agreement
The main goal of this partnership is to leverage Sun Fresh's extensive network and expertise in sales to increase the availability of Akita's high-quality agricultural products in both domestic and international markets.
Initiatives Under the Agreement
Domestic Launch: Summer Promotion at Yokohama Takashimaya
As the first initiative of this collaboration, Sun Fresh Group will host a promotional fair at Yokohama Takashimaya this summer. This event is strategically placed in one of Japan's premier department stores, which attracts a high-end consumer base. Here, premium Akita products such as the “gift-quality compact watermelon” and “junsai” will take center stage.
International Expansion: Export to Four Asian Stores
In a bid to extend its reach beyond domestic borders, Sun Fresh Group plans to utilize its global network for exporting high-quality Akita fruits to four stores across Asia. This includes notable locations such as Siam Takashimaya in Bangkok, Sogo in Hong Kong, and Seibu in Malaysia. The initiative taps into Akita's rich agricultural climate to supply these regions with exceptional fruit.
Supporting Local Producers: Addressing Market Needs
To ensure sustainable growth, Sun Fresh Group will actively gather feedback from local and international consumers to adapt to market demands. This is part of their commitment to fostering a marketable brand of Akita's agricultural products that resonate with both local producers and consumers.
Comments from President Akiko Ochiai
President Akiko Ochiai expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "I am truly delighted that we have successfully signed this agreement with Akita Prefecture. Our group possesses not only a robust domestic department store network but also established sales channels in major Asian cities. We aim to consistently deliver Akita's extraordinary agricultural products and become a bridge connecting producers' aspirations with the smiles of consumers at home and abroad. We are committed to this initiative as one unified group."
Company Overview
Company Name: Sun Fresh Group Holdings Co., Ltd.
Website: sunfresh-group.com
Representative: President Akiko Ochiai
Location: 15-2 Suehiro-cho, Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture
Business Activities: Managing a group focused on the sale of fresh produce with approximately 40 stores in major department store basements, as well as retail, wholesale, and export operations.
Media Inquiries
For media inquiries regarding this collaboration, please contact:
Sun Fresh Group Holdings Co., Ltd.
Public Relations: Kato
Phone: 04-7148-0851
Email: [email protected]