Regional Newspapers Challenging Regional Revitalization (6) Expanding into department stores to help businesses broaden their sales channels!

~Regional Newspapers Are Now Challenging New Initiatives, Leveraging Their Bonds with Readers as Assets~
Today, regional newspapers are leveraging their strong local networks to create new businesses and undertake initiatives that significantly contribute to regional revitalization. Each company is breaking traditional boundaries, continuously generating successful cases in new fields that lead to regional revitalization. This column, "Regional Newspapers Challenging Regional Revitalization," will feature unique examples from these efforts over six consecutive weeks!

47CLUB Inc. provides new opportunities for small local businesses to take on challenges, contributing to the expansion of regional business by building and sharing know-how to enhance the sales power of local products. Launched in 2007 as a site offering local foods and renowned products recommended by regional newspapers nationwide, it is also known for its creative catalog gift "Okurimono Bento" developed in collaboration with Dentsu Inc. Recently, however, the department store events it operates have been gaining attention.
The reason lies in its business model that benefits both department stores and businesses. Department stores can create compelling event lineups featuring products unavailable elsewhere, drawing from 1300 stores and 27,000 items—all rigorously selected by local newspapers, ensuring high credibility—without needing buyers to scout for goods. Additionally, they benefit from the immense promotional power of local media. This allows even small businesses with no prior experience or track record with department stores to gain entry opportunities. Furthermore, the "stamp of approval" from local newspapers helps businesses themselves gain credibility.

Another appealing aspect is the networking opportunities 47CLUB Inc. facilitates among participating businesses. Through social gatherings, high-performing vendors share their know-how with those facing challenges, fostering an atmosphere where even less experienced businesses feel motivated to continue. This supportive environment is a unique feature of 47CLUB Inc.
These efforts have been highly recognized, leading to the company being entrusted with the National Federation of Small Business Associations' "Project to Support Sales Channel Development for Regional Products Using Department Store Event Spaces." In fiscal year 2013, they held product fairs at 10 venues nationwide, and in fiscal year 2014 at 8 venues, operating approximately 20 venues annually.
Requests for events from major department stores nationwide are rapidly increasing. The company plans to hold events sequentially going forward.