Report by JapanConsuming

Key stories in this month's issue of JapanConsuming include: 1) Low cost apparel sales keep rising - Shimamura is adapting well despite the competition from platforms like Shein and Temu. 2) Zozo claims the global market for virtual clothes is growing rapidly - and prices suggest it’s probably correct. 3) The next big thing? Seven & I targets first SIP store by Feb. 4) Itochu (and Mizujin) have big plans for Eddie Bauer’s relaunch - hopes to create a major new lifestyle chain for 30s and 40s consumers. 5) Aeon’s new online food store, Green Beans, aims to change shopping habits. 6) Solving the 2024 logistics problem - companies are working hard to come up with solutions to reduce the impact of the new rules re. truck driver working hours.

Consumer Discretionary

Report by JapanConsuming

Ryohin Keikaku fired a broadside at Uniqlo last month. He confirmed that not only was their new president a former lieutenant of Tadashi Yanai, but that it plans to reduce prices to compete with Uniqlo in apparel and Nitori in homeware. Muji has big plans to become a ¥3 trillion behemoth in just 10 years with more stores in Japan than even discount apparel chain, Shimamura.