On July 30, a press conference was held at JFA House regarding Mercari, Inc.'s participation in Kashima Antlers' management. The conference was attended by Fumiteru Koizumi, President and COO of Mercari, Inc., Hiroshi Tsuka, Executive Officer of Nippon Steel Corporation, and Hiroshi Shono, Representative Director and President of Kashima Antlers F.C.
Fumiteru Koizumi, President and COO, Mercari, Inc.:
"This time, we have a contract to acquire 61.6% of the shares from a group company of Nippon Steel. We will form a new partnership between Antlers, which boasts the most titles in Japan with 20, and Mercari, our flea market app. Nippon Steel, which has supported the club for a long time and is rooted in the community, will remain a shareholder, and together we hope to make Antlers an even stronger club. The club's philosophy is 'All for Victory.' While valuing tradition, we aim to strengthen the club further in business aspects to make Antlers a truly global club."
Hiroshi Tsuka, Executive Officer, Nippon Steel Corporation:
"For Antlers to continue being a club that competes globally, it is essential to further strengthen its management foundation and enhance its corporate value. As a company, we have been considering concrete measures to achieve this. We have concluded that bringing in a new partner who can leverage the Antlers brand we have cultivated and pursue new business developments, thereby transitioning to new management, and supporting Antlers together with Mercari as that partner, is the best course of action. We intend to continue supporting the club as a major shareholder and official club sponsor. We kindly ask for your continued support of Antlers."
Hiroshi Shono, Representative Director and President, Kashima Antlers F.C. Co., Ltd.:
"In addition to Nippon Steel, which has supported us for a long time since the days of old Sumitomo Metal, Mercari will now join us as a management partner. The environment surrounding football is changing rapidly. As we seek further development and growth, we will inherit the traditions and philosophy passed down through the club, while also changing what needs to be changed. I am confident that Mercari's new involvement will further contribute to the club's sustainable growth. We aim to achieve the club's eternal themes of 'FOOTBALL DREAM' and 'Victory' together with the local community, utilizing Mercari's expertise, knowledge, and technology."
