About Univ. Co-op in Japan

In Japan, the University Co-operatives were mostly established after World War II. We support study, research, and campus life of both students and the faculty. We also contribute to the creation of attractive universities and the achievement of their missions. Overall individual members count 1.48 million, and the number of member students accounts for 40% of Japanese university students. Membership ratio in the university where University Co-op is established is high, approx. 95%.

Organizational Structure

A University Co-operative is an organization that students and the faculty fund, use, participate in, and manage. As an independent organization established under the Consumers' Co-op law, University Co-op collaborates with the university, mostly based on business trust contract/agreement.

The highest decision making body is the General Assembly where Representatives of Members join. At the General Assembly, annual plan of businesses and activities are discussed, and Directors and Auditors are elected. The Board of Directors manages day-to-day operation. Students account for the majority of representatives and approximately a half of directors.

Under the Board of Directors, businesses are carried out by co-operative employees. Meanwhile, students and the faculty also take part in businesses and activities. To promote it, there are four member committees, student, graduate student, international students and faculty staff.

Nationwide Network

University Co-operatives are found throughout Japan. Each University Co-op is organizationally and financially independent and makes the best uses of the network.

As the national center for the University Co-ops in Japan, National Federation of University Co-operative Associations (NFUCA) is engaged in joint activities regionally and nationally.

The nationwide operations of the University Co-ops are divided into 10 regions. In each region, there is a Local Center to promote member activities, and a Business Association which coordinates the joint purchasing and supports the member co-ops.