Next-Generation Tax-Free Platform Ocean Raises Approx. 500 Million Yen in Series A Funding

Funding Overview

Ocean Inc. has completed the second close of its Series A round through a third-party allotment of shares. The latest round was backed by the KURONEKO Innovation Fund L.P. No. 2 (managed by Global Brain Corporation with Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd. as a limited partner) and Shizuoka Capital Co., Ltd. Combined with the first close announced in September 2026, Ocean's total funding raised in the Series A round reaches approximately 500 million yen.

About Ocean Inc.

Operating under the mission "Making inbound shopping experiences freer," Ocean develops "Ocean Tax Refund," a next-generation refund-based tax-free platform. Founded in May 2024, the company supports digital transformation (DX) for retail stores through the digitalization of tax-free procedures.

Purpose of Funding and Future Outlook

In November 2026, tax-free shops across Japan will transition simultaneously from the "point-of-sale tax exemption system" to the "refund system." With the newly raised capital, Ocean aims to strengthen its transition support framework for affiliated merchants and enhance its product offerings. Furthermore, the company plans to accelerate collaborations with the Yamato Group—leveraging its logistics network—and Shizuoka Capital (part of the Shizuoka Financial Group), which maintains strong ties with regional businesses. Through these partnerships, Ocean will help merchants nationwide, including regional areas, adapt to the new system and successfully capture inbound tourism demand.