Overseas

The golden rules to entering the Japanese market
Having worked in Japan for ten years, Ferdinand Capati founded technology and consulting firm, AKB. Recently selected by VCSTIMELESS to support VCSTIMELESS clients’ expansion into Japan, AKB offers local market knowledge and insight into local business practices.

"The Japanese economy is changing. Until recently the nation’s wealth was concentrated in the middle classes. Over the last five years GDP has reached a record high, with consumer spending patterns becoming more and more fragmented. The upper classes continue to live a very luxurious lifestyle whilst the mass middle class is experiencing declining incomes, prompting a trend towards value retailers who offer good quality products at fair prices. This trend has led to the success of brands such as Uniqlo which has grown from 0 to 280 stores in just seven years.



Anne Fontaine launches own-label stores in Japan
Luxury ladieswear retailer, Anne Fontaine, has been present in Japan for over 10 years. The retailer initially entered the Japanese market through concessions but in 2004 decided to go it alone. "Japan is a strategic market. We wanted better control over our brand, distribution and customer service", explains Ari Zlotkin, CEO and cofounder.