Connecting with the Community, Where Employees Shine: IGA Co., Ltd. Holds Two-Day Annual All-Staff Meeting in Echizen, Fukui

IGA Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Echizen City, Fukui; President: Akinori Igarashi) held its annual all-staff meeting over two days from March 10 to 11, 2026, in its birthplace, Echizen City. More than 100 store managers and head office employees from all over Japan gathered at the site of the company's founding.

This event was a special opportunity for employees working in stores and head office operations nationwide to gather and share management policies. Beyond sharing information, it served as a platform to deepen mutual connections through intensive communication over two days, while experiencing the culture and charm of Echizen City. It also became an occasion to celebrate each individual's growth and challenges, enhancing the sense of unity as an organization.

### From 'Presentation' to 'Experience' The general assembly included sharing results from the previous fiscal year, announcing future management policies, and holding an annual award ceremony to recognize significant achievements and challenges by teams and individuals. A review was provided by Mr. Uesaka, representative of the Tax Accountant Corporation Uesaka Accounting. Additionally, the assembly featured many programs unique to IGA.

A symbolic highlight was the fashion show 'YourStage.' This year, participants were recruited in advance, and about 30 employees—ranging from newly appointed store managers to veterans and head office staff who usually work behind the scenes—took to the runway to express their own styles. Following a walking lesson by Mr. Takahashi, a long-time collaborator on fashion events, the employees delivered a synchronized performance after only brief practice, energizing the venue. External observers praised the sight of each employee shining as a protagonist.

During discussions aimed at deepening mutual understanding, 'deep self-introductions' were conducted to share past experiences and thoughts. Some employees were moved to tears while reflecting on their history, providing colleagues with a chance to learn surprising sides and relatable experiences of long-serving staff. This significantly narrowed the distance between team members.

Furthermore, a new initiative was launched to highlight small steps and continuous efforts in daily store operations and duties, separate from the annual awards. By valuing the process as much as visible results, the company aims to foster an organization where more employees feel encouraged to take on challenges.

The assembly concluded with a surprise appearance by 'LumilU,' a kids' idol unit produced by axes femme and born in Echizen City. They performed their debut song with great energy, filling the venue with excitement and smiles.

### Entering the Community, Touching Culture: Deep Ties with Echizen City Numerous 'mechanisms' were incorporated to allow staff to feel the connection with their birthplace. At the reception, local business partners provided food trucks and live music. The Mayor of Echizen also attended, transforming the reception into a venue to experience local food culture and community ties.

On the second day, an experiential program was held in the Takefu area of Echizen City. Employees walked through historical areas like Sosha and Kura-no-tsuji to deepen their understanding of local history. They also visited 'Igarashi Rasha-ten,' a project managed by IGA, to witness the reality of the old-house renovation project and kimono remake business firsthand.

To gain new perspectives and broaden horizons, a lecture by an external instructor was also held. Mr. Kishira from Goldratt spoke on the theme 'The Power of Questioning.' The session provided many insights into the nature of questioning, which is crucial for daily operations and decision-making.

The venue for the lecture was 'Yougan-ji Temple.' The temple has been a collaborator for IGA's events, including past fashion shows, as it aims to be a place where the community gathers. The head priest shared his thoughts before the lecture, making the learning experience itself feel connected to the community.