Workflow
一年连关三家!上海门店宣布闭店,全部清空,曾红极一时
21世纪经济报道·2025-05-08 12:25

Core Viewpoint - The closure of Tsutaya Bookstore in Shanghai's Jing'an MOHO mall reflects broader challenges faced by the retail and cultural consumption sectors in China, raising questions about the adaptability of foreign brands in the domestic market [3][11][12]. Group 1: Store Closures and Market Conditions - Tsutaya Bookstore officially closed in April 2025 after three months of inactivity, marking a significant loss for the once-popular retail space [1][8]. - The Jing'an MOHO mall, which opened in January 2023, is experiencing a decline, with approximately half of its stores vacant and low foot traffic [2][4][6]. - The closure of Tsutaya is part of a trend, with three other locations in Xi'an, Tianjin, and Shanghai shutting down since October 2024, attributed to franchisee business adjustments [10][11]. Group 2: Challenges in the Domestic Market - Tsutaya Bookstore's struggle in China raises concerns about whether it is "water and soil incompatible" with the local market, as it has not established a strong cultural presence compared to its success in Japan [9][12]. - The brand's high-end positioning and reliance on franchise models face challenges due to a shrinking middle-class consumer market and a lack of stable commercial spaces [12][13]. - The bookstore's offerings do not significantly differentiate from existing local competitors, leading to questions about its unique value proposition in the crowded market [12][13]. Group 3: Future Strategies and Adaptation - Tsutaya aims to evolve from being merely a retail space to becoming a lifestyle and consumption hub, integrating more deeply into consumers' lives [15][17]. - The company plans to enhance its influence and operational flexibility, focusing on existing store performance and expanding event hosting to attract younger audiences [18][19]. - There are intentions to open a second Tsutaya location in Wuhan, indicating a continued commitment to growth despite recent closures [19].