August 24, 2026, 9:12 a.m. (JST)
[Japan] American Express International, Inc. (American Express, Tokyo, Japan) announced that it will launch three initiatives for the first time as part of “SHOP SMALL,” a program designed to support small and medium-sized businesses and independently owned stores.
“SHOP SMALL” is a global initiative by American Express aimed at supporting small and independently owned businesses and revitalizing local communities; it was launched in Japan in 2017.In 2026, marking its 10th anniversary, the initiative will adopt the theme “Meet. Connect. Move Forward.” Through a partnership with Square, it aims to support the sustainable growth of local businesses by fostering new encounters and connections not only between cardmembers and local stores but also among store owners themselves.
As the first initiative of the year, on September 9, 2026, American Express and Square will jointly host “THE TASTE NOTES,” an experiential event connecting restaurant owners with food and beverage suppliers that are American Express Merchants.Under the theme “Find inspiration for your next dish right here,” the event will offer various food-related encounters and tips for creating new menu items through tastings and samplings provided by food and beverage suppliers, a talk session featuring foodie Takafumi Hamada—who has interacted with top chefs both in Japan and abroad—and networking opportunities among restaurant owners.
In addition to a joint exhibit by meat wholesaler “Suzushou Meat Supply” and “Tonkatsu Noguchi,” several food and beverage suppliers—including “Marutsu Osei,” a fresh fish wholesaler at Toyosu Market—will be exhibiting at the venue.
Furthermore, the “Cashback at Square Merchants” campaign will offer 10% cashback on eligible card purchases made at Square merchants nationwide.
As part of its business support initiative for merchants, Square will visit 10,000 Square-affiliated stores nationwide to provide free in-store promotional materials. (paymentnavi Editorial Team)
