Tokyo, Japan – May 4, 2026 – A significant step towards combating textile waste is being taken by FamilyMart convenience stores across Japan. In a move aimed at reducing the estimated 560,000 tonnes of clothes discarded annually in the country, select FamilyMart locations have begun collecting used clothing and household goods for a new lease of life. This initiative, which aligns with broader retail efforts to promote sustainability and draw in environmentally conscious consumers, is a direct response to the considerable volume of textile waste generated, representing a substantial portion of new clothing supplied to the market.
The trial, a collaboration with Bookoff Group Holdings, a prominent player in the used goods market, has seen collection boxes installed in approximately 30 FamilyMart stores situated in Tokyo’s residential districts. Bookoff Group Holdings is set to manage the resale of some of these collected items internationally, with Malaysia identified as one of the potential overseas markets. This venture underscores a commitment to the principles of a circular economy, where items are kept in use for as long as possible.
FamilyMart has also indicated that any clothing not deemed suitable for resale will undergo a recycling process, transforming it into new fibre. This dual approach of reuse and recycling highlights a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the environmental impact of textiles. The launch of these FamilyMart Japan initiatives marks the first joint project following a capital alliance formed between Itochu Corporation, the parent company of FamilyMart, and Bookoff Group in February of this year.
This programme builds upon FamilyMart’s established success with its food drive charity, a nationwide effort implemented in around 4,900 of its 16,400 stores. That programme allows customers to donate excess household food items to assist those in need, demonstrating the company’s ongoing dedication to community welfare and sustainable practices. The expansion into textile collection further solidifies the company’s commitment to addressing environmental concerns through tangible, customer-facing solutions. These FamilyMart Japan initiatives are part of a growing trend among retailers to integrate sustainable practices into their core operations, recognizing the importance of reducing waste and promoting responsible consumption.
