Celebrating One Year of Ponta Pass with Special Workshop by Mayumi Shiraishi

Celebrating One Year of Ponta Pass

KDDI's popular subscription service, Ponta Pass, which has around 15 million users, recently celebrated its one-year anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, the company announced enhancements to its offerings, including member coupons and cashback services. The highlight of the celebration was a special seminar hosted by Mayumi Shiraishi, a representative of SWEET STEADY and a passionate Ponta Pass user, on October 1.

Special Workshop Led by Mayumi Shiraishi

Mayumi Shiraishi, recognized for her enthusiasm about Ponta Pass since becoming the official concierge in May 2025, conducted the exclusive seminar to showcase the various benefits of the service. The workshop welcomed six members of SWEET STEADY, who eagerly participated in learning more about Ponta Pass. Shiraishi, showing slight nervousness as she transitioned to a teaching role, expressed her determination by stating, “I usually learn from my members, but today I’m excited to teach them!”

Lesson One: Understanding Ponta Pass

The first lesson focused on the foundational aspects of Ponta Pass. Upon being prompted by Riyo Shiokawa to explain the service, Shiraishi enthusiastically noted, “I’m excited to share!” Ponta Pass, often referred to as a “lifestyle subscription,” provides countless coupons under three main categories: safety, savings, and entertainment. Shiraishi emphasized her favorite coupon, the Weekly LAWSON discount, highlighting its versatility even for those who cannot enjoy coffee, as it includes discounts on other beverages.

Lesson Two: Celebrating One Year of Ponta Pass

The seminar continued with a discussion on the special coupons available to celebrate the first anniversary. The upcoming enhancements promise a more convenient, profitable, and joyful experience for users. Shiraishi shared two notable new services with attendees. The first was “Ponta Pass Weekly Chance,” where users can win a total of ¥10 million worth of Ponta Points simply by entering weekly. Fellow member Nagisa Shoji expressed her astonishment at how generous this offer was.
The second highlight was the new coffee course associated with the Weekly LAWSON coupon, promising five complimentary small coffees monthly, totaling approximately ¥800 value per month. Shiraishi’s excitement was palpable as she wondered aloud if such generosity was sustainable.

Lesson Three: The Hidden Ponta Campaign

The workshop's final segment introduced a thrilling new initiative called the “Hidden Ponta Campaign,” launching on October 7 at LAWSON across the country. Member Natsuka Kurita was quick to inquire if their local LAWSON would participate, to which Shiraishi confirmed emphatically. She urged participants to search for the five-character hidden keywords located throughout LAWSON stores, further raising the energy in the room.
Curious about the prizes, member Yui Otoi asked about the distribution of luxurious rewards, which included a commemorative gift box of Meiji Milk Chocolate, a ¥2,000 QUO Card Pay, and exclusive SWEET STEADY signed merchandise.

Announcement of Ponta Merchandise Collaboration

In an exciting conclusion to the seminar, Shiraishi unveiled a collaboration with SWEET STEADY to create exclusive Ponta merchandise. This long-awaited announcement thrilled everyone, with Shiraishi expressing her joy at finally seeing her requests come to fruition. The members echoed her happiness, amplifying the excitement in the room as they anticipated future collaborations.

The workshop wrapped up with Shiraishi encouraging everyone to visit LAWSON and participate in the Hidden Ponta Campaign. Attendees praised her presentation, with Kurita noting how Shiraishi's love for Ponta Pass was palpable throughout the session. The seminar demonstrated not only the benefits of Ponta Pass but also the community spirit and excitement generated by such initiatives.

Q&A with Mayumi Shiraishi

Following the seminar, members had the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with Shiraishi, covering topics like her inspiration for using Ponta Pass and her involvement in a recent promotional event. Member Nagisa Shoji inquired about Shiraishi's attendance at Ponta Pass meetings, to which Shiraishi confirmed her participation in meetings with KDDI, discussing potential improvements and new coupon ideas.
Shiraishi’s engagement with the community and her proactive approach to enhancing user experiences through direct feedback exemplify the dedication of the official concierge to the Ponta Pass initiative. As the seminar concluded, members eagerly anticipated future developments while celebrating their shared passion for Ponta Pass.