The Japan Retailers Association (JRA) was established in May 1978 by leading retail organizations—including the Japan Department Stores Association and the Japan Chain Stores Association—under the leadership of chambers of commerce and industry. Its mission is to contribute to the improvement of daily life in Japan through the sound development of the retail industry.

　In response to the dramatic shifts in consumer lifestyles and needs in recent years, JRA is actively engaged in addressing common challenges faced by the retail sector—regardless of business format or scale. Our activities also include fostering relationships with retail associations around the world and promoting digital transformation (DX) to improve productivity and modernize the retail and distribution sectors.

　In the field of international exchange, JRA co-hosted the 7th World Retailers Conference (Tokyo) , in June 1980 with the National Retail Merchants Association (now the National Retail Federation) – marking the first time this global event was held in Asia. In 1983, the 1st Asian Retailers Convention & Exhibition was held in Tokyo.

　JRA also played a founding role in the establishment of the Federation of Asia-Pacific Retailers Associations (FAPRA) in 1989, and has since been a key contributor to the growth and advancement of the retail industry not only in Japan but across the Asia-Pacific region.