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Mercari Japan Launches New App in the U.S., Expanding Mercari’s Existing Marketplace Ecosystem

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U.S. customers can now discover deals on Japanese collectibles more easily through a dedicated new app for shopping items from Japan.

TOKYO, June 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Mercari, Inc. of Japan (“Mercari Japan”) today announced the launch of Mercari Japan, a new standalone app available in the United States. Mercari Japan is a cross-border shopping platform that enables U.S. customers to easily discover great deals and shop with confidence from Japan’s online marketplaces, Mercari and Mercari Shops.

The new Mercari Japan app is provided by Mercari Japan and is available separately from the U.S. marketplace, which is provided by Mercari, Inc. of the United States (“Mercari”). With the Mercari Japan app, American shoppers gain a dedicated experience for discovering and shopping items from Japan, while the existing U.S. marketplace remains a go-to destination for domestic buying and selling. As part of this launch, the Mercari x Japan feature, currently available through the existing U.S. marketplace, will be phased out as users transition to the Mercari Japan app for a more seamless international shopping experience with added value.

Background of the launch of the Mercari Japan app

Mercari x Japan was introduced by Mercari as a feature within the existing U.S. marketplace, giving U.S. users a way to discover and purchase items from Mercari, Japan’s largest marketplace. The feature resonated with anime fans, Japanese fashion enthusiasts, and collectors, underscoring growing demand in the U.S. for authentic and hard-to-find products from Japan. The new Mercari Japan app, provided by Mercari Japan, builds on that momentum with a dedicated cross-border shopping experience.

Driven by the growing global popularity of Japanese culture, demand for authentic and hard-to-find products from Japan has surged. U.S. customers shopping across borders, particularly for rare and higher-priced items, increasingly value fast and hassle-free delivery. Mercari Japan is designed to meet those needs with a dedicated cross-border shopping experience.1

The cross-border e-commerce market between Japan and the U.S. continues to expand. According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, purchases of Japanese products from the U.S. are expected to reach approximately JPY 1.6 trillion in 2024, up 8.0% from the previous year.² In addition, the U.S. media and entertainment market is the largest in the world, exceeding JPY 90 trillion, and related categories are also expected to continue growing.³ ⁴

Mercari Japan’s cross-border transaction business has grown rapidly, with gross merchandise value (GMV) increasing more than 15-fold over the past three years to exceed JPY 90 billion annually.⁵ With the launch of Mercari Japan, Mercari Japan aims to become the leading cross-border marketplace for entertainment and hobby items from Japan.

1. Results of US market research and user surveys conducted by Mercari Japan

2. “FY2024 E-Commerce Market Survey Report”, METI (only available in Japanese)
(https://www.meti.go.jp/press/2025/08/20250826005/20250826005-a.pdf)

3. “Survey Results on the Size of the Media and Entertainment Market in Japan and the World and Overseas Sales of Japanese Content in 2024” (only available in Japanese) (https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000045.000007447.html)

4. “Anime Merchandising Market Report, 2024”, Grand View Research. The market is projected to grow from approximately 10.8 billion USD in 2024 to approximately 18.7 billion USD in 2030.

5. Mercari Japan FY2025.6 Q4 Financial Results Presentation Materials, page 36
(https://pdf.irpocket.com/C4385/hGOm/QABk/Snp2.pdf)

Overview of the Mercari Japan app

Mercari Japan makes it easy for buyers in the U.S. to shop for items from Mercari and Mercari Shops in Japan. By reducing barriers such as language, payment, and purchasing complexity, the app helps users discover great deals on authentic and rare products from Japan.

– Feature 1: Direct access to Japan’s largest marketplace 

The Mercari Japan app gives international buyers access to a vast selection of rare and unique items from Mercari, Japan’s largest marketplace with more than 4 billion total listings, as well as inventory from Mercari Shops. This extensive selection creates a sense of discovery while shopping.⁶

In December 2025, Mercari began offering items from Suruga-ya, a leading Japanese gaming and collectibles retailer known for its extensive inventory and expertise in authenticity verification, helping users shop with even greater confidence.

– Feature 2: Mercari centrally manages the shipping process

From payment to package tracking, the entire purchase experience is managed seamlessly in the new Mercari Japan app. Before final shipment, Mercari Japan inspects every item, and buyers can easily find in-app tracking to monitor delivery status and location, helping make cross-border shopping more transparent and reliable.

– Feature 3: Lower-cost alternative to conventional cross-border purchases

Users of the new Mercari Japan app can buy items directly from Mercari in Japan, avoiding intermediary proxy services and associated fees.

– Feature 4: Shipping protection service included with all purchases

The new Mercari Japan app includes shipping protection service for all items, giving shoppers added peace of mind in the event an item is damaged during international shipment.

– Feature 5: A seamless shopping experience that breaks down barriers of language and currency

In addition to real-time translation powered by AI, the Mercari Japan app supports payment in USD through U.S. payment services. Users can purchase items easily without the stress of language or currency differences.

– Features planned for future implementation

Looking ahead, Mercari Japan plans to roll out new features designed to help improve the security of international marketplace transactions and drive further growth in collectibles and gaming categories.

Authentication: an optional service where items are authenticatedAuction style listings and pre-order item featureFeatures incorporating entertainment and gaming elements

6. Mercari Reaches 4 Billion Cumulative Listings (only available in Japanese)
(https://about.mercari.com/press/news/articles/20240911_4billion/)

Campaign Overview

To celebrate the launch of Mercari Japan, we will be running a promotion for customers in the United States.

Campaign Period: June 18, 2026 – July 5, 2026
Details: Customers are eligible for a maximum of three coupons

30% OFF first purchase coupon for new customers only (maximum discount: $25)25% OFF trading cards category only coupon (maximum discount: $20)20% OFF sitewide coupon (maximum discount: $15)

With the launch of the new Mercari Japan app in the U.S., Mercari Japan is creating a dedicated destination for American shoppers to discover, browse, and buy items from Japan.

Overview of Mercari Japan
Company Name: Mercari, Inc.
Location: Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-6125, Japan
Main Business Activities: Planning, development, and operation of the Mercari marketplace app
Representative: Shintaro Yamada

For information about using the Mercari logo and icon, please see the page below.
https://about.mercari.com/en/press/press-kit/mercari/

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SOURCE Mercari, Inc.

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Achieve Publishes New Online Guidance for Freedom Debt Relief and Achieve Customers

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SAN MATEO, Calif., Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Achieve announced the publication of a new online resource designed to provide proactive, transparent customer guidance. As part of a broader financial wellness ecosystem, this newly launched initiative helps consumers understand the relationship between Achieve and Freedom Debt Relief in a natural and helpful manner.

As individuals explore ways to navigate their financial solutions online, they may encounter references to both the Achieve and Freedom Debt Relief brands. To ensure clarity, the new guidance explains that Freedom Debt Relief, a subsidiary of Achieve Company, continues to operate as an active, customer-facing debt relief program. By addressing both brands transparently, the resource supports distinct customer experiences without confusion.

A key feature of the new customer resource is account access clarification. The guidance clearly explains exactly where both Freedom Debt Relief and Achieve customers should log in to access their respective accounts and find dedicated support. While related, Achieve and Freedom Debt Relief maintain separate customer experiences, account systems, and support resources.

“Dealing with debt is personal, stressful and consequential,” said Achieve Senior Vice President of Marketing Layla Revis. “Consumers should know exactly which company provides their financial services, no matter where they begin their research. Whether someone is considering debt settlement through Freedom Debt Relief or exploring a personal loan or HELOC through Achieve, they deserve clear, accurate and accessible information before they make a decision.”

For more information and to view the new clarification and support resources, please visit:

Achieve: Understanding the Relationship Between Achieve and Freedom Debt ReliefFreedom Debt Relief: Understanding the Relationship Between Freedom Debt Relief and Achieve

About Achieve

Achieve, THE digital personal finance company, helps everyday people get on, and stay on, the path to a better financial future. Achieve pairs proprietary data and analytics with personalized support to offer personal loans, home equity loans, debt relief and debt consolidation, along with financial tips and education and free mobile apps: Achieve MoLO® (Money Left Over) and Achieve GOOD™ (Get Out Of Debt). Achieve is frequently recognized for providing top-rated customer experience and satisfaction by both consumers and leading personal finance review platforms and has 2,200 dedicated teammates across the country, with hubs in Arizona, California, Florida and Texas.

Achieve refers to the global organization and may denote one or more affiliates of Achieve Company, including Achieve.com, Equal Housing Opportunity (NMLS ID #138464); Achieve Home Loans, Equal Housing Opportunity (NMLS ID #1810501); Achieve Personal Loans (NMLS ID #227977); Freedom Debt Relief (NMLS ID # 1248929); and Freedom Financial Asset Management (CRD #170229).

Contacts

Austin Kilgore
akilgore@achieve.com
214-908-5097

Elina Tarkazikis
etarkazikis@achieve.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/achieve-publishes-new-online-guidance-for-freedom-debt-relief-and-achieve-customers-302876793.html

SOURCE Achieve

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proof-it and The Tennessee Whiskey Trail Announce The 2026 TN Collective Tasting Notes Contest

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ATLANTA, Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 Tennessee Collective, a collaborative effort between 11 Tennessee distilleries, and proof-it, a next-generation consumer authenticity and engagement platform, proudly announces a partnership to commemorate the release of the The 2026 Tennessee Collective American Whiskey, a delicately crafted new addition to the whiskey industry of Tennessee that will give consumers a unique look into the craft, process, and flavor of each bottle, and direct participation with those who made it.

Each bottle will come with proof-it technology, giving consumers the chance to see the passion in each bottle.

A celebration of the long and rich history of distilling in the state of Tennessee, this new American Whiskey from The Tennessee Collective is a bold testament to the dedication and alliance of the industry. WIth efforts from Big Machine Distillery, Gate 11 Distillery, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Leiper’s Fork Distillery, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, Old Dominick Distillery, Old Glory Distilling Co., Peg Leg Porker Distillery, Short Mountain Distillery, Sugarlands Distilling Co., and Tennessee Legend Distillery, this bottle is a new entry in the history and camaraderie of the Tennessee whiskey distilling industry.

“proof-it has become an integral partner in the Tennessee Collective, creating an exclusive digital experience that connects consumers more deeply to the bottle, the blend and the distilleries behind it,” said Charity Toombs, Executive Director of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. “Just as importantly, their technology has given us a valuable window into our customers—helping us better understand who they are, how they engage with the Collective and what interests them most about the product and blend.”

The whiskey will be available starting September 1, 2026 at each of the participating distillery’s tasting rooms, as well as online for pre-order at www.tnwhiskeytrail.com/tn-collective. Each bottle will come with proof-it tag technology, giving consumers the chance to see the passion that went into each bottle, while also offering the chance to discover what makes this bottle unique. This year’s release unlocks a new way to engage with the story of each distiller involved, as each individual distillery’s allocation of bottles will come with a custom video and the story of their specific contribution to the whiskey, only accessible via the proof-it tag on the neck. Beyond a collector’s item, each bottle tells the story of its own existence in eleven different parts and celebrates the craftsmanship that went into this release.

To celebrate the launch, proof-it will also be hosting the Tennessee Collective Tasting Notes Contest through January 7, 2027, offering buyers an opportunity to explore the whiskey’s depth. Simply tap an unlocked smartphone to the unique proof-it tag on each bottle, and users can offer opinions and notes on what they taste in the rich complexity of this unique whiskey. The best entry to the Tennessee Collective Tasting Notes Contest will win tickets to Grain and Grits Festival 2026!

About Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Where the whiskey meets the road. Seven years ago, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail was launched by the Tennessee Distillers Guild as a celebration of our state and its signature spirits. Today we host more than 30 stops across the state, offering a taste of Tennessee and a road map for adventure. Visitors to the Trail can soak up the sights and sounds that have been shaped by Tennessee whiskey, whether stopping by for a sip or making a weekend of it. For more information, visit www.tnwhiskeytrail.com and the Tennessee Whiskey Trail’s Instagram @tnwhiskeytrail.

About proof-it

The proof-it™ platform enables consumers to learn the stories behind the labels of the brands they love, and manage their collections in revolutionary ways. Combining authenticity, consumer engagement, and tamper-proof technology at once, proof-it™ is leading the way into the next generation of consumer engagement and brand building. Look for the proof-it™ Wings™ logo and simply tap it with your unlocked phone.To learn more about the ways proof-it™ can enhance your consumer experience and beyond, visit www.proofit.app.

proof-it™ is powered by Aware Technologies, Inc., providing complete visibility throughout a product’s journey, and enabling new ways for brands to interact with their customers.

Full contest rules are available here: https://scan.proofit.app/contests/rules/tennessee-collective-rules-2026

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/proof-it-and-the-tennessee-whiskey-trail-announce-the-2026-tn-collective-tasting-notes-contest-302876770.html

SOURCE Aware Technologies, Inc.

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IDScan.net Data Breach: Edelson Lechtzin LLP Launches Investigation Into Exposure of Personal Information

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National class action firm offering free case evaluations to individuals impacted by IDScan.net cybersecurity incident

NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Edelson Lechtzin LLP, a national class action law firm, is investigating data privacy claims arising from the IDScan.net data breach. IDScan.net experienced a data breach on or about September 1, 2026.

What Happened

IDScan.net learned around September 1, 2026, that an unauthorized party may have accessed or copied customer information stored in its cloud accounts. The company secured its systems and brought in outside cybersecurity specialists to investigate the incident, which remains ongoing.

Information Exposed

The IDScan.net data breach may have compromised certain personal information, including full names and driver’s license or other government-issued identification numbers.

Who May Be Impacted

Individuals who received a data breach notification from IDScan.net may face an increased risk of identity theft and fraud.

Your Legal Options

Edelson Lechtzin LLP is investigating a potential class action to pursue legal remedies for individuals whose sensitive personal data may have been compromised in the IDScan.net breach. The firm will evaluate your rights and potential claims at no cost.

Recommended Protective Steps

Review account statements and credit reports regularly and remain vigilant for suspicious activity. Confirm whether your information was involved in the IDScan.net incident and preserve any letters or emails you received about the breach. Consider placing fraud alerts and credit monitoring.

Contact Us for a Free Case Evaluation

Speak confidentially with a data privacy attorney today: Marc Edelson, Esq., Edelson Lechtzin LLP, 411 S. State Street, Suite N-300, Newtown, PA 18940; Phone: 844-696-7492; Email: medelson@edelson-law.com; Web: www.edelson-law.com. Or click HERE to request a free consultation.

About IDScan.net

IDScan.net is a technology company that provides identity verification and data capture solutions for businesses and organizations.

About Edelson Lechtzin LLP

Edelson Lechtzin LLP is a national class action law firm with offices in Pennsylvania and California. In addition to data breach litigation, the firm handles class and collective actions involving securities and investment fraud, federal antitrust violations, ERISA employee benefit plans, wage theft, and consumer fraud

Media and Partnership Inquiries: Use the contact information above to connect with our team regarding interviews, co-counsel opportunities, and referral partnerships.

Legal Notice: This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/idscannet-data-breach-edelson-lechtzin-llp-launches-investigation-into-exposure-of-personal-information-302876772.html

SOURCE Edelson Lechtzin LLP

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