Lawson Inc. (TSE:2651) reached a basic agreement to acquire 4.6% stake in Three F Co., Ltd. (TSE:7544) on November 27, 2015. The Three F brand name will be retained. The two companies said they plan to sign a final agreement as early as late December.

As of April 13, 2016, a business and capital alliance was formed. A share purchase and sale contract between existing shareholders of Lawson and Three F is expected to be signed by April 14, 2016.