Partnership with Walmart in the U.S. and "your approval"

Seiyu Atsubetsu store

In 2002, the company entered into a comprehensive business partnership with Walmart in the United States, and became a wholly owned subsidiary of Walmart in 2008. After that, making use of the know-how of Walmart, the world's largest retailer, the "Minna no Osumekute" series was launched in 2012. The brand continues to enjoy popularity today, as it only commercializes products that receive an approval rating of 80% or more in consumer tests involving the participation of ordinary consumers.

Seiyu's management decisions and its separation from Hokkaido

Seiyu has adopted a strategy of concentrating its business in Honshu, and announced that it would withdraw from Kyushu at the same time as it withdrew from Hokkaido. With Aeon Hokkaido acquiring nine Seiyu stores in Hokkaido, Seiyu will withdraw from Hokkaido. All Seiyu stores currently operating in Hokkaido are locally-owned and loved by the locals. It has been announced that they will be replaced by Aeon-affiliated stores from October 2024 onwards.

This is sad news for those who have been watching Seiyu since it first opened in the area, but its mission of supporting the local kitchen will continue, including employment. The new store will continue to be loved by the local community.