Apparel and Footwear Retailing in Japan: Trends and Prospects

Japan: A fading star in a dynamic region

Japan’s position as the world’s third largest apparel and footwear market is being jeopardised by its weak economic and demographic conditions. The country’s growth prospects are greatly overshadowed by neighbouring markets in Asia Pacific.

Japan’s middle-income earners pressured

A prolonged period of weak income growth has put Japan’s middle-income consumer base, which constitutes over half of the country’s population, under pressure. Planned VAT increases pose a further threat to spending power.

Retail polarisation boosts sales at top and bottom of market

There is a strong trend in Japan for selective shopping - income pressure is encouraging consumers to choose economy and discounted products for everyday items, but a desire for luxury brands still exists.

Japanese brands lead sales

Japanese retailers such as Fast Retailing Co Ltd and Shimamura Co Ltd have a strong foothold on the local apparel and footwear market, due to better understanding of local tastes and focus on innovation.

Innovation is paramount

Providing consumers with a constant stream of novelty both in terms of products and retailing concepts has been a key strategy for sales growth in Japan, highlighted by the success of Fast Retailing Co Ltd.

Womenswear brands target working women

The increasing number of women entering the workforce has been a key driver of womenswear in Japan. Marketing initiatives and products targeting working women has become a key strategy for apparel retailers.

What this report includes

• Top-level strategic analysis of how major consumer trends will influence global markets
• Consumer insight
• Impact across all relevant consumer markets
• Unique graphics and case studies
• Key market snapshots
• Accompanying presentation to synthesise main findings

Why buy this report

• Identify factors driving change now and in the future
• Understand motivation
• Forward-looking outlook
• Briefings and presentation should provoke lively discussion at senior level
• Take a step back from micro trends
• Get up to date estimates and comment