On October 10, a consortium of three companies led by JR Kyushu announced that it has entered into a sales contract with Asahi Beer to acquire the land of the Asahi Beer Hakata factory, which is expected to cease operations by the end of 2028. The factory, located in Hakata, Fukuoka, encompasses an area of 126,200 square meters and is situated near Takeshita Station. The consortium aims to begin using the land by December 2029, although the specific plans for development have not yet been disclosed.

The consortium includes JR Kyushu, Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate, and JA Mitsui Leasing Kyushu. The acquisition price remains undisclosed. JR Kyushu cites the stable population growth in the Fukuoka metropolitan area, high transportation convenience, and the large size of the land as reasons for the acquisition. While the consortium anticipates that the site could be developed for residential apartments and commercial facilities, they have expressed a desire to harmonize with the local community, indicating that they want to maximize the land's appeal and contribute positively to the area's urban development.

This land acquisition is significant within the local context of Fukuoka City, offering potential for urban revitalization after the factory's closure. Asahi Beer’s exit from manufacturing in the area could pave the way for new projects that address community needs and improve the urban environment. The consortium's emphasis on community harmony suggests a forward-thinking approach to urban planning, with careful consideration of how the development can integrate with existing neighborhood dynamics and foster growth in Fukuoka City.