First in Kyushu! License-Free Personal Mobility Device 'WHILL' Introduced Simultaneously at Three 'A-Z' Supermarkets in Kagoshima Prefecture

Makio Corporation (Headquarters: Akune City, Kagoshima Prefecture; President & CEO: Yumi Makio; hereinafter referred to as 'A-Z') announces the introduction of WHILL (pronounced 'Will'), a license-free short-distance mobility device developed by WHILL Inc. (Headquarters: Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo; President & CEO: Satoshi Sugie; hereinafter 'WHILL'), at three supermarket locations within Kagoshima Prefecture. This marks the first time a supermarket in the Kyushu region has introduced WHILL (Note 1). To ensure customers can use the device safely and comfortably, Kagoshima Toyota Motor Corporation (Headquarters: Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture; President & CEO: Hisashi Yanazono; hereinafter 'Kagoshima Toyota'), an authorized WHILL dealer, will provide prompt, locally based support for any issues or malfunctions.

Background of Introduction

In recent years, as Japan’s aging population accelerates, A-Z has received numerous requests from elderly customers with mobility concerns and others who find long walks difficult, expressing a desire to shop more comfortably and at their own pace. In response, A-Z has decided to introduce the electric short-distance mobility device 'WHILL' to create a store environment where all customers can shop with peace of mind. Not only does this reduce physical strain for users, but it also allows accompanying family members to enjoy a relaxed and pleasant shopping experience together at A-Z. The company will continue expanding its in-store services tailored to the needs of local customers.

Implementation Overview

Locations:

- A-Z Akune Store - A-Z Kawanabe Store - A-Z Hayato Store (Total: 3 stores)

Launch Date:

September 1, 2026

Number of Units:

One unit per store (Total: 3 units)

Usage Fee:

Free of charge (first-come, first-served rental system)

Target Users:

Individuals with mobility issues, pregnant women, etc.

Usage Conditions:

Weight under 115 kg, feet able to reach footrests when seated, sufficient attention and awareness to operate safely, etc.

WHILL is easy to maneuver through wide aisles and features zero-turn capability, enabling smooth movement inside the store.

About WHILL

WHILL is a short-distance mobility device classified as a 'pedestrian' under Japanese regulations, developed and deployed by WHILL Inc. It features intuitive joystick control for easy operation and is designed to navigate narrow corridors with excellent maneuverability. WHILL is already widely adopted across Japan in airports, commercial facilities, and amusement parks, supporting mobility for elderly individuals, wheelchair users, and others with walking difficulties. For more information: https://www.k-toyota.co.jp/topics/whill_k_toyota

Comment from A-Z Representative

"Our decision to introduce WHILL stems from our strong belief that we want every customer in our community to enjoy shopping at A-Z. We aim to become a store where even those who previously felt discouraged by large store layouts or physical strain can now fully enjoy the excitement and joy of shopping without worrying about walking. We will continue striving to remain a place where everyone in the community—regardless of age or physical ability—can shop happily and with smiles." – Shuuya Tamura, Director, Makio Corporation

Overview of A-Z Supermarket

[Company Name] Makio Corporation

[Headquarters] 2210 Akasegawa, Akune City, Kagoshima Prefecture

[Representative] President & CEO Yumi Makio

[Business Activities] Operation of supermarkets, etc.

[Official Website] https://a-zmakio.com

<About WHILL Inc.>

WHILL Inc. aims to be the global leader in short-distance mobility solutions, guided by its mission to 'make mobility fun and smart for everyone.' By integrating hardware and software, WHILL is building a world where anyone—regardless of physical condition or age—can move freely and comfortably. Official website: https://whill.inc/jp