Russian signs, shipyards full of cars, and cargo vessels bound for Sakhalin reveal the surprising trade route that continues to power Otaru’s economy.
Otaru’s Secret Economy: The Hidden Trade Route Powering Russia’s Used-Car Market Read More »
Japan’s department store confectionery counters are more than indulgence—they are high-performing retail engines. This article explores how ingredient-led branding, giftability and visual discipline create standout customer engagement.
The Hidden Playbook Behind Japan’s Department Store Okashi Read More »
Royce’: Hokkaido’s chocolate star From cocoa farms in Colombia to advanced manufacturing across Hokkaido During a recent visit to the Royce’ Chocolate shop and factory in Sapporo, I was reminded how premium food brands are rarely built on product alone. They are built through story, place, engineering discipline, and restraint. Royce is a masterclass in how Japanese
How a Privately Owned Japanese Chocolate Brand Built US$220m in Revenue — Quietly Read More »
Why Otaru? The sight of century-old warehouses glowing at dusk, the smell of freshly cooked scallops and snowboarding — these are the moments that convinced me Hokkaido was more than just a destination. After countless visits, I finally decided to make it home, buying an apartment in Otaru this summer. Otaru is a year-round destination
Living the Hokkaido Dream: Food, Culture, and Real Estate Read More »
Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan (CCBJ) oversees bottling, sales, and distribution across retail, vending, and foodservice channels. In Japanese business language, this frontline activity is known as the genba (現場) —the coal face, where strategy meets reality. As a publicly listed entity, CCBJ reports its financial results regularly. Its second-quarter (H1) earnings presentation drew attention online, as
Graffiti and Declining Sales: Coca-Cola’s Vending Machine Struggles in Osaka Read More »
Last week, I returned from a summer trip to Hokkaido, Japan’s northern frontier—and a rising star in the global seafood trade. With its cool, UK-like climate and rich marine bounty, Hokkaido offers a compelling case study for exporters and market entry strategists alike. Otaru: A Historic Port with Modern Potential Nestled just north of Sapporo,
Cracking the Crab Code: Can Otaru’s Seafood Find a Global Route to Market? Read More »
Whilst Expo 2025 Osaka is largely an event for the general public, business and trade discussions play a crucial role. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to be a VIP guest at the Belgian Pavilion, exploring key industries that are core to Belgium’s export engine—Chocolate, Biscuits, and Coffee. The event featured presentations from four leading Belgian
Japan’s Love for Belgian Chocolate – Insights from Expo 2025 Read More »
I’m currently in Hokkaido, and while I’ve visited many times, this northern island never ceases to amaze me with its wild natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. Hokkaido has always been one of my favourite parts of Japan. I always thought that Hokkaido’s biggest food products were milk, dairy products, confectionery, and cheese cakes, not to
I’ve always struggled to describe Donki Hote (Don Quijote). Some say it’s a discounter with cut throat pricing, what discounters sell an eclectic range encompassing fresh sushi, car accessories, fashion and more besides? The chain is famous for its Aladdin’s range of merchandise including many import items. It’s fun to visit (unlike many European discounters)
Behind the scenes of Donki (ドンキホーテ）, now Japan’s 4th biggest retail chain Read More »
The export of Japanese food started in earnest with sushi in the 1980s at the zenith of Japan’s postwar boom. Today the export of ‘washoku’ (food, agriculture and fishery products) exceeds $8.7b. It’s a number that is climbing every year. Animé is even bigger worth $29.4b in exports in 2022 thanks to the likes of
