BLANC Launches Collaboration with DEFENDER: Hosting a Special Event for DEFENDER Owners at the Newly Established 'BLANC YATSUGATAKE'

BLANC Inc. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Representative Director: Takuya Yamanaka, hereinafter 'the Company'), which operates nature-symbiotic hotels, is pleased to announce the start of a collaboration with the British adventure brand 'DEFENDER' developed by Jaguar Land Rover Japan (hereinafter 'JLRJ').

As the first step in this collaboration, a special event for DEFENDER owners titled 'DEFENDER & BREAKFAST in YATSUGATAKE' was held at our facility 'BLANC YATSUGATAKE' (Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture), which is preparing for its grand opening on April 24, 2026.

The Company was also selected as the stage for 'DEFENDER JOURNEY IN YAMANASHI' last year. This marks our second initiative with DEFENDER, evolving into a collaboration that shares the values of both brands.

[Background of Collaboration] DEFENDER is an adventure brand that combines urban, sophisticated design with high off-road capabilities, supporting everything from stylish daily life in the city to active experiences in nature. This worldview shares a high affinity with BLANC's philosophy of offering stays that allow guests to step slightly away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take a deep breath in nature. We considered DEFENDER the perfect fit to connect BLANC, which bases its locations in both urban areas and suburban nature.

Furthermore, the stay experience provided by BLANC—utilizing trailer houses to frame landscapes while minimizing the impact on nature—resonates with DEFENDER's spirit of offering experiential value that guides people to nature, going beyond mere 'transportation' or 'accommodation.'

Through this collaboration, both companies will propose new lifestyle experiences and the value of spending time in nature to DEFENDER owners.

[Main Partnership Details] - Display of DEFENDER vehicles and shuttle services at BLANC facilities - Exclusive BLANC accommodation privileges and perks for DEFENDER owners

[Event Report] 'DEFENDER & BREAKFAST in YATSUGATAKE' On the day of the event, many new and classic DEFENDERs gathered at 'BLANC YATSUGATAKE' before its grand opening, creating an impressive scene against the backdrop of the Yatsugatake mountains.

Special sandwiches prepared by our chef, along with bread and coffee served in original tumblers, were provided. Owners deepened their connections with each other in the clear air of Yatsugatake.

Additionally, an awards ceremony was held to celebrate individuality among the gathered vehicles. Owners selected based on specific themes received commemorative gifts, bringing great excitement to the venue.

Furthermore, to commemorate this collaboration, a mini-ceremony was held featuring Takuya Yamanaka, Representative Director of the Company, and Mr. Matthew Sleath, Marketing & Client Experience Director of JLRJ.

[Comments] Jaguar Land Rover Japan Limited Marketing & Client Experience Director Mr. Matthew Sleath 'The value of "Tough Luxury" championed by DEFENDER overlaps with BLANC's philosophy of providing high-quality stay experiences in the great outdoors. Just as BLANC cherishes design and interior aesthetics while being immersed in nature, DEFENDER also combines toughness with refinement. We are delighted to deliver new value to the customers of both brands through this collaboration.'

BLANC Inc. Representative Director Takuya Yamanaka 'What BLANC cherishes most is the "blank time" spent in harmony with nature. We want to provide a stay where people can step away from the convenience and speed of the city, take a deep breath in nature, and rebalance themselves. BLANC's experience of luxuriously savoring the unique scenery of the land while minimizing environmental impact resonates deeply with DEFENDER's spirit of bringing people into nature. DEFENDER is not just a means of transportation; it is a travel partner that enriches life. In our new locations expanding across Japan in the future, we look forward to co-creating luxurious experiences that make you want to drive out in a DEFENDER and return to nature.'

About BLANC YATSUGATAKE The concept is 'Another World in the Sky, Overlooking the Yatsugatake Mountain Range.' The Southern Alps spread out before you, and turning around reveals the majestic Yatsugatake. Wake up to the singing of birds in the morning, and be enveloped by a sky full of stars at night. Laugh around a campfire with friends, walk in the forest, feel the wind, and take a breath of relief in the bubbling hot springs. Please enjoy an active stay embraced by the forests of Hokuto.

[Hotel Overview] Name: BLANC YATSUGATAKE Address: 5616-1 Wakamiko, Sutama-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Phone: 0551-30-9186 Access: 10 minutes by car from Sutama IC, 15 minutes by car from Nirasaki Station Site Area: 9,500 square meters Area of each building (including deck space): - [Alps View] Suite Villa: 98.32 square meters - [Alps View] Standard Villa: 26.45 square meters - Standard Villa: 26.45 square meters - Family Villa: 26.45 square meters Number of rooms: 19 rooms Price: From 8,400 JPY per person (tax included, with breakfast, based on 2-person occupancy in a Standard Villa). *Please check the reservation site for details. *A separate bathing tax applies for junior high school students and above.