Air Cargo Collaboration Between AIRDO and ShunPachi Revolutionizes Hokkaido Produce Distribution

Air Cargo Collaboration Between AIRDO and ShunPachi

A new logistics model is emerging as AIRDO (Air Do Co., Ltd.) teams up with ShunPachi Seika-ten, a urban greengrocer based in Tokyo. Their collaboration is centered on promoting air cargo services for Hokkaido's fresh produce, allowing for direct transportation from local airports to urban markets. Starting September 1, 2025, this initiative will be highlighted through the "Hokkaido Direct! ShunPachi x AIRDO Produce Air Transport Fair" at all ShunPachi locations.

Pioneering Air Transport Services for Fresh Produce

Inaugurated in August 2024, AIRDO's direct transport service, named "Hokkaido Produce Air Transport – AIRDO Direct," focuses on enhancing the value of Hokkaido products through the fastest delivery processes. This service aims not only to ensure the freshness and ripeness of the produce but also to elevate the promotion of Hokkaido goods in metropolitan regions by branding them under "Hokkaido Air Transport." Furthermore, the initiative addresses the upcoming logistics challenges of 2024 by securing and expanding the air cargo transport network.

The process involves facilitating direct transactions between producers seeking to expand their market reach and buyers looking to procure Hokkaido products. As a part of this operational strategy, AIRDO will implement a PR campaign aimed at showcasing the benefits of air delivery, such as quality preservation and enhanced value through reduced transport times.

Utilizing Business Models for Effective Logistics

This initiative is conducted under a comprehensive business model known as SPF (Speciality store retailer of Private label Food), which AgriGate (the parent company of ShunPachi Seika-ten) operates to ensure seamless transitions from procurement to sales. The collaboration between AgriGate and AIRDO ensures that fresh, high-quality goods can be delivered from Hokkaido directly to consumers in Tokyo, with plans to expand shipping to nationwide markets.

While air transport has previously been utilized for high-value items, the partnership enables transporting good-quality, slightly blemished produce that is still suitable for sale. By applying the best practices of AgriGate, they will ensure that these products reach the urban markets while maintaining their quality. The goal is not simply to transport items but to do so at affordable prices by optimizing logistics on both Hokkaido and urban sides, ultimately reducing costs.

Expanding Market Access Thanks to Air Transport

Looking forward to July 2025, ShunPachi buyers are actively making multiple site visits to negotiate with producers to establish transactions for products suitable for Tokyo’s market, focusing on popular local specialties and produce that doesn't adhere strictly to conventional standards.

Through AIRDO's connections with various regional airports in Hokkaido, including Asahikawa, Hakodate, Memanbetsu, and Kushiro, Hokkaido's produce can be flown directly into the heart of Tokyo with remarkable speed. This capability enables products shipped on the same day to appear on store shelves by evening. Additionally, previously overlooked items due to minor damage can now gain traction in metropolitan markets thanks to air delivery logistics.

Beyond the Hokkaido-Tokyo route, opportunities arise for distribution nationwide. For instance, there are times in Kyushu when produce prices increase due to demand, while Hokkaido's market is saturated. By utilizing air transport, fresh products can be dispatched to regions in need without forcing prices to plummet at the origin.

Promotion of Hokkaido Produce at ShunPachi Seika-ten

The air-transported goods will be available at all ShunPachi stores from September 1 under the title "ShunPachi x AIRDO Produce Air Transport Fair." The initiative encompasses various local specialties, giveaways, and a seminar discussing the potential of air transportation. The fair is slated to run from September 1 to October 26, 2025.

Key events will include product tastings, promotional giveaways, and tours for media representatives at select stores. Featured products will embrace a range of items sourced from the local airports, including corns from Abashiri and Bihoro, spring onions from Kitami, and various agricultural processed products.

Conclusion

The collaboration between ShunPachi Seika-ten and AIRDO promises not only to boost the visibility of Hokkaido's quality produce but also to tackle existing logistical challenges innovatively. As both firms continue to refine their operations, consumers can expect fresh Hokkaido goodness at their local urban markets.