[Event Report] HQ and Matsuya distribute 500 free beef bowls as the first action of the 'Project to Save Employees from Inflation'

HQ and Matsuya distributed 500 free beef bowls in Otemachi to raise awareness about upcoming tax reforms for meal subsidies and strategies to combat inflation.

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  • 📰 Published: March 28, 2026 at 16:53
  • 🔍 Collected: March 28, 2026 at 21:59 (5h 5m after Published)
  • 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 15, 2026 at 08:06 (418h 6m after Collected)

HQ, Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Shoji Sakamoto), which operates under the vision of "transforming employee benefits from a cost into an investment," partnered with Matsuya Foods Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Musashino-shi, Tokyo; President: Kazutoshi Kawarabuki) to host an event on March 26, 2026, at 11:30 AM in Otemachi, Tokyo. The event featured Matsuya's "Sunrise" food truck, which distributed 500 free beef bowls.

With tax reforms scheduled to take effect on April 1, 2026, the tax-exempt limit for meal subsidies will be significantly increased for the first time in 42 years, rising from the current 3,500 yen to 7,500 yen. This event was held just before the implementation to raise awareness about the effectiveness of meal subsidies in maximizing "real take-home pay" amidst inflation.

This initiative serves as the first action of the "Project to Save Employees from Inflation," which was launched in February. It aims to experience and promote a new era of employee benefits, starting from the heart of the business district in Otemachi.

On the day of the event, a large crowd gathered for the 500 available tickets, and all tickets were distributed within 15 minutes.

FAQ

What companies partnered to host the beef bowl distribution event?

HQ, Inc. and Matsuya Foods Co., Ltd. partnered to host the event.

When and where was the free beef bowl distribution event held?

It was held on March 26, 2026, at 11:30 AM in Otemachi, Tokyo.

How many free beef bowls were distributed during the event?

A total of 500 free beef bowls were distributed to the crowd.

What is the upcoming change to the tax-exempt limit for meal subsidies?

The tax-exempt limit will increase from 3,500 yen to 7,500 yen on April 1, 2026.

How quickly were the tickets for the free beef bowls distributed?

All 500 tickets for the free beef bowls were distributed within 15 minutes.