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Promoting Hachioji's Textile Industry through Digital Innovation

The Hachioji Textile Industrial Association, based in Hachioji City, Tokyo, is set to launch a new initiative called the “Hachioji Textile Industry Regional Co-Creation Marketing Project.” This project is backed by the Tokyo Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Association as part of its Special Support initiative under the “New Strategy Support Project for SME Associations for FY2023.” The aim is to enhance sales capabilities through digital technology and innovative marketing strategies, ultimately fostering the local economy by revitalizing the textile sector.

Supporting a Flourishing Industry

Hachioji is renowned for its rich history in sericulture and textile production, earning the nickname “桑都 (Sōto)” or “Mulberry Capital.” The area is notably recognized as a source of “Tamaori,” a traditional craft designated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. Despite facing modern challenges, the textile industry remains a vital part of the region’s identity and economy.

Through the new project, the Hachioji Textile Industrial Association seeks to create robust sales mechanisms for its member companies by capitalizing on digital technologies. This initiative will not only strengthen individual enterprises but also contribute to broader local development efforts aimed at enhancing Hachioji’s socio-economic landscape.

Three Key Objectives

1. Contribution to Member Companies: The project focuses on establishing new sales-enhancing strategies using digital tools tailored specifically for the member companies of the association. The goal is to ensure sustainable growth and development within the local textile sector.

2. Local Contribution: By collaborating with local businesses, organizations, and community groups focused on urban development and revitalization, the project aims to boost overall regional economic health.

3. Inspiring Other Associations: By sharing the project’s outcomes and strategies, the team hopes to stimulate interest and participation from other associations, contributing to the overall revitalization of Tokyo’s manufacturing industry.

Project Initiatives

The various initiatives designed for the project include:

• - Digital Transformation of Communications: The official association website and social media accounts will be revamped to enhance information dissemination not only to industry stakeholders but also to the general public.

• - Utilizing Digital Media for Promotion: Advertising through local media channels will be coupled with the use of specialized regional influencers to promote Hachioji’s textile offerings on social media platforms.

• - Exhibitions and Events: The association plans to participate in several key events, including the “Kumiai Matsuri in Tokyo” (scheduled for October 29-30, 2025, at Tokyo International Forum) and the “2nd Tokyo Textile Scope 2026” (November 12-14, 2025, at Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center). Additionally, the association will host its textile exhibition, “Hachioji Textile Exhibition: Spinning a Thousand Years,” from January 9-11, 2026.

Conclusion

The Hachioji Textile Industrial Association's newly launched project encapsulates an important movement towards integrating digital technology into traditional industries. It is expected that through collaboration and innovative strategies, not only will the association's member companies thrive, but they will also set a precedent for others in Japan’s textile industries to follow. With ongoing efforts, Hachioji aims to fortify its legacy while stepping confidently into the future.