Akie Shimada Appointed as Outside Director of Piala Inc., Strengthening Management Foundation with Branding and Marketing Expertise

Piala Inc. (Headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Takao Asuka; hereinafter "the Company"), a marketing partner that designs brand and direct-to-consumer strategies in an integrated manner and is committed to maximizing results with AI and passion, announces that at the 22nd Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders held on March 26, 2026, the proposal for the election of five directors was approved, and Ms. Akie Shimada was newly appointed as an outside director.

■ Background of the Outside Director Appointment

The Company is promoting business expansion through Marketing DX that designs brand and direct as a single unit, evolving from "technology for selling" to a "growth infrastructure."

In this context, the Company considers the sophistication of its brand strategy, the strengthening of decision-making based on customer understanding, and the further enhancement of its management structure as important themes. By welcoming Ms. Shimada, who has extensive practical experience in the branding and marketing fields and possesses a high level of insight from an independent standpoint, we will incorporate diverse perspectives into the Board of Directors and lead to the creation of a stronger management foundation.

Notably, Ms. Shimada's appointment marks the selection of our company's first female outside director, and we expect that this will add an even more diverse perspective to the Board of Directors.

Going forward, while leveraging Ms. Shimada's expertise, we will promote the sophistication of brand strategy and value creation in each business, and aim for sustainable corporate value improvement through the strengthening of our company-wide growth foundation.

■ Comment from the New Outside Director

"I am Akie Shimada, and I have been appointed as an outside director of Piala Inc.

I feel that the company is now entering a major phase of transformation and challenge towards PIALA2035 under a new Vision and Mission. As the speed of change continues to accelerate, I believe that while it is important to flexibly change what needs to be changed, the essence of engaging with customers and society, and the core principles that the company must uphold, will become even more crucial.

Based on the rich practical experience I have cultivated in terms of both quality and quantity, I intend to contribute to the sustainable growth of the company from an objective, third-party perspective. As an outside director, I will contribute to the sophistication of our brand strategy and the strengthening of our management structure."

■ Profile of the New Outside Director

Name: Akie Shimada

She has a wealth of experience in the branding and marketing domains, with a strong suit in strategic design based on consumer perspectives and business growth support.

■ Future Outlook

Our company will continue to promote Marketing DX that combines AI and human sensibility, and we are committed to the growth of companies through both brand and direct channels. Through Ms. Shimada's participation...