On June 22, the Tokyo Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games announced the first wave of "Tokyo 2020 Official Original Merchandise." These products feature the Tokyo 2020 Games emblem, as well as the official emblems of the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) and the Japan Paralympic Committee (JPC).
These original products refer to items within the Tokyo 2020 official licensed merchandise that are independently planned and developed by the Organizing Committee.
At the announcement event held in Minato Ward, Tokyo, Masahiko Sakamaki, Director of Marketing, stated regarding this announcement: "Licensed merchandise typically sees its highest sales in the year of the Games. However, the Organizing Committee planned to announce and begin sales as early as possible, hoping to generate interest and support for the Games among as many people as possible." He added, "We will strive to expand the product lineup going forward and aim to increase the number of Olympic and Paralympic fans."
The first wave of products went on sale starting June 23rd, Olympic Day commemorating the founding of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), at the Official Online Shop ( https://tokyo2020shop.jp/ ), shops within the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and major sporting goods retailers. Additionally, two Official Shops are scheduled to open for a limited time in late July.
Products featuring the Games emblem include T-shirts, polo shirts, towels, pin badges, and key chains. Goods adorned with the JOC/JPC emblem will also be sold simultaneously.
At the venue, shooting athlete Aki Taguchi, competing in her third consecutive Paralympics, and artist Asao Tokolo, who designed the Games emblem, took the stage. Taguchi, who also serves on the Organizing Committee's Emblem Committee, noted that official merchandise is popular at international events, and she often buys items for herself or as souvenirs. "I hope these products will soon be everywhere in the city. By wearing the merchandise, I want to share the excitement for the Games, especially with children," she said. "Personally, I hope for products that can be attached to wheelchairs and goods that are recognizable to the visually impaired."
Noro remarked, "It's deeply moving to see the emblem I created finally take on a life of its own. I hope it will be used by a wide range of people, from children aiming for the Olympics to athletes. It can also be applied to products utilizing traditional Japanese craft techniques, like uchiwa fans, folding fans, and yukata."