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 »
Japan’s tea exports have skyrocketed from under US$20 million fifteen years ago to nearly US$200 million today. Behind this tenfold surge lies more than global fascination with sushi and ramen—it’s the result of savvy marketing, design-forward packaging, health positioning, and a renewed focus on consumer education. Riding the Wave of Japanese Culture The global appetite
Beyond Tradition: Modern Branding Fuels Japan’s Tea Export Boom Read More »
In 2024, Japan’s second-largest convenience store chain, Lawson, was delisted from the Tokyo Stock Exchange by its new owners, trading house Mitsubishi and communications giant KDDI. Lawson has long played second fiddle to market leader 7-Eleven, but could it be poised to overtake its rival in key Asian markets? In Japan, Lawson operates around 14,000
What Lawson’s Osaka Test Store Tells Us About Their Next Big Move in Asia Read More »
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 »
Last week the No 2 Japanese telecoms giant KDDI revealed plans with partner Mitsubishi to take Lawson convenience stores private. Lawson stores are ubiquitous in Japan (there are over 14,000) as is KDDI’s mobile business which trades under the ‘Au’ brand. 会うmeaning ‘meet’ as does 合う meaning ‘unite’. Both kanjis are pronounced ‘Au’. All are
I have been to Vietnam many times on work assignments. However I’ve only been to Ho Chi Minh, in the south, the city which straddles the Saigon river. Two weeks ago I visited again for a client workshop and in between sandwiched some other engagements. One was with an ex-Nestlé colleague who now works for
Last week I spent 3 days in Seoul. Although I have been to Korea many times, this was my first visit since the COVID pandemic eased. Seoul was very busy and even though it was November, and hardly peak season, bustling with visitors. I have done quite a few projects in Korea over the years.
Costco has succeeded in Japan where others have failed. Last week it opened its 32nd store. Join me ot see what I found!
According to Bloomberg, bohemian German shoe brand Birkenstock will IPO shortly for around $8b. If all goes to plan it’s almost double what PE Group L Catterton, LVMH and Groupe Arnault shelled out when acquiring the business just over 2 years ago. What’s driving such a rapid rise in Birkenstock’s fortunes? To start with Birkenstocks
