#Japan #Tokyo #circular economy #Class Inc. #Hirotake Kubo

Class CEO Hirotake Kubo to Present at STIG PoP Seminar

On June 12, 2026, the University of Tokyo will host the 176th STIG PoP Seminar, featuring Hirotake Kubo, CEO of Class Inc., as a keynote speaker. This event offers a significant platform to discuss how circular economies can address pressing social issues, including rising commodity prices and climate change.

Event Overview

The upcoming seminar will revolve around the theme of "Implementing Circular Economy in Durable Goods Businesses." Kubo plans to elaborate on the operational framework of Class's platform and unveil future perspectives on sustainable business practices. As society grapples with environmental challenges, transitioning from a linear economy—characterized by the traditional model of production and consumption—to a circular economy is becoming increasingly urgent.

Kubo's Vision for a Circular Economy

Class Inc., based in Meguro, Tokyo, operates a circular platform specializing in the rental and subscription of furniture and home appliances. Their vision, "To live freely and lightly," encapsulates their goal to redefine how society interacts with durable consumer goods. Their key offerings include 'CLAS', a rental service for individuals, and 'CLAS Biz' for corporate spatial design and enhancement. These services are designed to extend the lifecycle of durable goods, promoting reuse rather than disposal.

Since its inception, Class has successfully established a unique process in which returned products undergo repair and cleaning before re-entering circulation. As of April 2026, the company reportedly surpassed a total of 330,000 cycles of product circulation. This innovative approach significantly contributes to reducing the number of products prematurely discarded, ensuring they achieve their full lifespans and foster a sustainable circular society.

Environmental Impact and Achievements

The effectiveness of Class’s business model was validated through a project commissioned by the Ministry of the Environment, revealing noteworthy reductions in waste generation and resource inputs—38% and CO2 emissions by 36% compared to traditional sales-based business models (as of February 2023). This marks a significant advancement in pursuing carbon-neutral and resource-circulating societies.

Future Directions

During his presentation at the STIG PoP Seminar, Kubo will detail the practical mechanics behind Class's circular platform. Furthermore, he will explore the prospects for a next-generation infrastructure that allows furniture and electronics to remain in continuous circulation within society. By fostering such transitional shifts, the company aims to contribute to forming a viable circular economy.

About Hirotake Kubo

Kubo graduated from the University of Tokyo with a degree in engineering in 2005 and completed his postgraduate studies there in 2007. His career began with A.T. Kearney, where he focused on corporate strategies and organizational frameworks. In 2012, he founded MuseCo, achieving impressive annual revenues before selling the business in 2015. Kubo’s establishment of Class Inc. in 2018 allowed him to pursue his vision of a freer, lighter lifestyle through innovative circular platforms.

About Class Inc.

Class Inc. is dedicated to creating a circular economy platform with multiple offerings, including 'CLAS'—a subscription service for furniture and appliances—and corporate solutions such as 'CLAS Biz' and 'CLAS Home Staging', set to facilitate early property sales. The company is committed to reducing initial costs and the hassles of disposal by providing flexible options for borrowing, purchasing, and returning items as lifestyle needs change.

In its mission to contribute to environmental sustainability and a circular economy, Class strives to construct a society where resources are continuously recycled, enabling individuals to live authentically. With over 270,000 individual subscribers and 3,500 corporate accounts as of February 2026, Class is leading the way in establishing a robust circular economy.

For more information about Class Inc. and their initiatives, visit their corporate website.