Is it just a convenience store? No. The \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 in Osaka is much more. It is a co-operative association tied to Osaka University.
The \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 strives to improve the lives of everyone at Osaka University. It listens to its members’ voices. It tries its best to make their ideas real. This makes it charming.
Anyone linked to Osaka University can join the \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354. Visitors from other universities cannot become members. Without membership, you miss out on privileges. Non-members often pay about 10% extra on most items.
The \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 is a non-profit group. It comprises students and university staff. All members work together.
The \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 was established May 30 1962. Its headquarters are in Toyonaka City, Osaka. Taro Eguchi is the representative director.
It runs various stores. These provide items needed for studies. It offers healthy meals in cafeterias across the campus.
To become a \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 member, you need to invest. The \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 asks for 3000 yen per person. This money supports the \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354’s business activities. The full amount is returned when you leave the \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354.
To join, fill out a membership form. You can get this at the \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 office. Then, download the smartphone app two weeks later. This app acts as your membership card. Without a smartphone, contact the office for alternatives.
If you leave Osaka University, refunds are immediate. You can get the refund on the day.
If you don’t leave Osaka University, things are different. Declare your withdrawal by November 30. You’ll get your refund on March 1 of the following year.
Since September 19 2023 non-members pay extra at the register. The amount depends on how much you spend. For example spending between 1 and 99 yen incurs an extra 5 yen. Spending 100 to 199 yen incurs an extra 11 yen. No refunds are made if you forget your card.
The \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 operates various shops and cafeterias. The Toyonaka district hosts the main store. It offers food, stationery and Osaka University goods. The library also has a store. It is located in the basement.
The \u5927\u5b66\u751f\u5354 is more than just a shop. It is a community. It is a support system. It helps make university life better for everyone.