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 Representative Director: Taiji Kobayashi; TSE Standard, Securities Code: 3135; hereinafter 'MarketEnterprise') have concluded an agreement on a reuse project aimed at solving local community issues, with the partnership set to begin on Friday, March 27, 2026. By utilizing 'Oikura,' a reuse platform 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 identified challenges, including the fact that items still in good condition are often discarded as waste, and an increase in consultations regarding the disposal of bulky items due to the rising number of elderly households. 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.' Given the alignment of both parties' needs to promote reuse and form a circular society, this initiative using 'Oikura' was realized.

*1 About 'Oikura': 'Oikura' is a reuse platform operated by MarketEnterprise. Users can request bulk appraisals from affiliated reuse shops nationwide, allowing them to compare purchase prices, dates, methods, and reviews. It 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. 'Oikura' offers on-site purchase services, where staff can enter the home to assist with moving heavy or large items, making the sale of such goods much easier. Furthermore, items covered by the Home Appliance Recycling Law, such as refrigerators and washing machines, may still be eligible for purchase if they are in working condition. Using 'Oikura' allows for same-day disposal and handover 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 at 3:30 PM on Friday, March 27.