Imari City, Saga Prefecture, Partners with 'Oikura' to Launch Reuse Initiative for Unwanted Items Ahead of Peak Moving Season

Imari City, Saga Prefecture (Mayor: Hironobu Fukaura) and MarketEnterprise Co., Ltd. (Chuo-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Taiji Kobayashi; TSE Standard: 3135; hereinafter 'MarketEnterprise') have concluded an agreement on a reuse project aimed at solving regional social issues, with collaboration starting on Friday, March 27, 2026. By utilizing the reuse platform 'Oikura' operated by MarketEnterprise, the city aims to build a system for reusing unwanted items instead of discarding them, thereby reducing waste and fostering a circular economy in Imari City. ■ Background and Context Imari City has been actively working toward achieving the SDGs through initiatives such as providing information on unwanted item exchanges, collecting used clothing with the cooperation of private businesses, conducting food drives, and holding bazaars at recycling fairs. However, the city faced challenges, including the fact that items still in good condition were being discarded as waste, and an increase in inquiries regarding the disposal of bulky waste due to a growing elderly population. Consequently, the city sought to introduce new reuse measures to raise awareness among citizens. Meanwhile, MarketEnterprise, which operates primarily in the reuse sector, has focused on cross-sectoral SDG initiatives, such as participating in the 'Regional Revitalization SDGs Public-Private Partnership Platform.' Recognizing a shared goal of promoting a circular society, the two parties have partnered to implement 'Oikura' (Note 1). Note 1: About 'Oikura' 'Oikura' is a reuse platform operated by MarketEnterprise. Users wanting to sell unwanted items can request a bulk appraisal from affiliated reuse shops nationwide, allowing them to compare purchase prices, dates, methods, and reviews. The service has been used by approximately 1.55 million people (as of the end of June 2025). Website: https://oikura.jp/ ■ Imari City's Challenges and the 'Oikura' Solution Currently, Imari City collects bulky waste via designated collection points or self-delivery to the clean center, requiring citizens to move items outside their homes themselves. 'Oikura' offers on-site pickup services, where staff can enter the home to assist with moving heavy or large items. Additionally, items covered by the Home Appliance Recycling Act, such as refrigerators and washing machines, may be eligible for purchase if they are still functional. Using 'Oikura' allows for same-day sales and pickups at the earliest. There is no cost to the city for this service. ■ Future Outlook The service will be available on the Imari City website starting March 27 (Friday) at 3:30 PM.