relay (pronounced 'relay'), an open-name business succession platform that connects those who wish to pass on their business with successors through 'empathy' (operated by Light-Right Co., Ltd., headquarters: Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture; CEO: Ryuta Saito; hereinafter referred to as 'relay'), announces the upcoming seminar on business succession for small business owners and self-employed individuals, to be held on July 29, 2026 (Wed) in collaboration with Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, to promote business succession. Register for the event here Japan is said to be entering a 'mass retirement era,' with approximately 50,000 businesses closing annually—of which 60% reportedly shut down while still profitable due to lack of successors. Setagaya Ward is home to many beloved local shops, flavors, and craftsmanship developed over decades. Yet, in reality, an increasing number of these businesses are forced to close due to aging owners and lack of successors. The closure of small businesses that support local communities not only leads directly to economic decline but also results in job losses and the erosion of community ties. To pass on the 'invisible assets' accumulated by small and medium enterprises—such as expertise, technical skills, and human connections—to the next generation, it is urgent to directly address the challenge of successor shortages. This seminar will introduce supportive policies and services that facilitate business succession, as well as share real-life case studies. In a special talk session, a guest who succeeded the 96-year-old business 'Tsukiya Saketen' as its fourth-generation owner will share insights on how the values embedded in a business signboard can be passed on to future generations. We invite you to join us in envisioning this meaningful transition. Whether you are a business owner beginning to consider your company's future, someone interested in starting a business through succession, or a support organization seeking information, we