#Japan #Tokyo #StarPay #Netstars #MachiToku Pay

Collaboration Between FeliCa Pocket Marketing and Netstars

FeliCa Pocket Marketing Co., Ltd., based in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, and Netstars, a company located in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, have entered into a business partnership to develop a new regional currency package called 'MachiToku Pay'. This innovative package is designed to be used by local governments, combining cashless payment solutions with local currency systems.

The Concept of MachiToku Pay

'MachiToku Pay' connects with StarPay, a multi-cashless payment solution offered by Netstars. This service enables users to take advantage of cashless payments nationwide, while simultaneously promoting local consumption through regional currency, whether in the form of money or points.

Addressing Local Challenges

One significant issue municipalities face with existing cashless point refund programs is the inability to prevent the outflow of taxpayer-funded refunds outside their regions. The integration feature of 'MachiToku Pay' allows refunds to be issued exclusively in local points (regional currency), thus effectively solving this problem.

Inspiration Behind MachiToku Pay's Development

The creation of 'MachiToku Pay' stemmed from the need for a solution that maximizes the convenience of expanding cashless payment services while capitalizing on the benefits of local currencies that circulate within specific regions. FeliCa Pocket Marketing has played a vital role in revitalizing regional economies by providing platforms for local currencies and digital vouchers. They have received numerous inquiries from municipalities regarding the challenges posed by cashless point refund programs, especially regarding the outflow of incentives.

Combining Regional Needs with Technology

This new package was developed to answer these requests by linking with StarPay. 'MachiToku Pay' allows users the flexibility to select from various nationwide cashless services, maintaining the ease of use while fostering a consumption cycle within the locality. Additionally, it can easily adapt to digital voucher projects tailored to the needs of specific municipalities.

Participating Cashless Services

Currently, 'MachiToku Pay' is integrated with AEON Pay, au PAY, and Merpay, with plans to include d-pay® and Rakuten Pay in the future. To make a transaction, users can scan a common two-dimensional code at a store, input the payment amount, and select their preferred payment method, thereby seamlessly engaging with their chosen cashless payment apps. Users can also combine local point rewards with other cashless services for enhanced benefits.

Benefits of the System

1. Maximizing Economic Impact: Local refund points must remain within registered local merchants, ensuring budget (taxpayer) circulates in the locality.
2. Improving Public Satisfaction: The expansion of payment options facilitates participation by users, potentially increasing their consumption willingness through the simultaneous granting of local points and cashless service points.
3. Sustained App Usage: The application is designed to be a continuous part of the community's digital infrastructure, linking with premium product offerings and regional currency programs.
4. Ease of Implementation: The system is relatively easy to adopt, enabling municipalities to implement it quickly.
5. Community Engagement: The app can include features for community enhancement, such as events, government notifications, surveys, and discount offerings.

Who Should Consider This?

• - Officials concerned about the outflow of refund points from the region in cashless point refund programs.
• - Those seeking effective economic stimulation strategies but find independent local currency implementations too challenging.
• - Individuals assessing long-term cashless strategies or digital voucher initiatives.
• - Local governments transitioning from paper vouchers to digital solutions.

Future Directions

Starting October 2025, a proof of concept (PoC) will launch in the Rakurakuen shopping district of Hiroshima City. Based on the outcomes, the goal is to introduce this program to 30 municipalities in its first year. In addition to cashless point refunds and digital vouchers as short-term objectives, the aim is to evolve into a comprehensive civic application that integrates local currency, payment solutions, and services rooted in daily life, including healthcare, eco-friendly initiatives, and governmental procedures.

Through the launch of 'MachiToku Pay,' FeliCa Pocket Marketing and Netstars aim to connect administration, businesses, stores, and residents in a mutually beneficial relationship, contributing to the realization of sustainable and affluent local communities.

About StarPay

StarPay is a versatile multi-cashless payment solution that consolidates various payment methods, including QR codes, credit cards, electronic money, and points for unified application and management. Supporting over 50 services, it enhances cashless solutions across various establishments, including vending machines and unmanned stores.

About FeliCa Pocket Marketing

Founded in 2008, FeliCa Pocket Marketing is committed to uplifting regional economies, enhancing community engagement, and improving public well-being through diverse digital solutions focusing on local currency, healthcare, eco-initiatives, SDGs, and volunteering.

• - Website: FeliCa Pocket Marketing
• - MachiToku Pay Introduction: MachiToku Pay

About Netstars

Since its establishment in 2009, Netstars has focused on gateway services, introducing QR code payment service 'WeChatPay' in Japan in 2015 as its first agency. It continues to expand cashless payment solutions across retailers through its multi-cashless payment solution, StarPay, underpinned by robust technical capabilities.

• - Website: Netstars

(Note: 'MachiToku Pay' is currently pending trademark registration by Netstars, and 'StarPay' is a registered trademark of Netstars. Other trademarks referenced include those of their respective companies.)