割不动了，无印良品向中国中产低头

Core Viewpoint - MUJI is facing significant consumer backlash regarding its pricing strategy, with many customers feeling that the prices are excessively high compared to their expectations and similar products in the market [1][3][7]. Pricing Concerns - Consumers have expressed that MUJI's new product prices are nearly double what they consider acceptable, leading to widespread criticism on social media [1][3]. - Despite some consumers acknowledging the quality of certain products, the overall pricing remains positioned at a higher tier compared to competitors [3][7]. - Specific examples of high pricing include a wooden trash can priced at 158 RMB, which has drawn negative comments from consumers [7]. Quality Issues - There are ongoing concerns about product quality, with reports of items such as shirts and wooden tables experiencing defects shortly after purchase [7][11]. - MUJI has faced multiple penalties for selling non-compliant products in China, indicating potential issues with quality control [11][12]. Strategic Adjustments - In response to consumer feedback, MUJI has made efforts to lower prices in China, aiming to align them more closely with Japanese market prices [13][14]. - The company has implemented significant price reductions, with some products seeing price cuts of up to 50% since 2014 [13]. - MUJI has also expanded its store presence in China, adding 47 new stores by the end of the 2024 fiscal year, indicating a commitment to growth in this market [14][15]. Market Importance - China is MUJI's largest overseas market, contributing significantly to its overall sales, with a reported 21.3% year-on-year increase in sales for the first quarter of the 2025 fiscal year [15][16]. - The company has introduced new store concepts, such as the "MUJI 500" stores, which focus on lower-priced items to attract a broader customer base [14][15]. Competitive Landscape - MUJI faces increasing competition from brands like Miniso and NOME, which offer similar minimalist styles at lower prices, challenging MUJI's market position [17][19]. - The brand's high-end positioning in China has led to criticism and a loss of its original value proposition, making it essential for MUJI to find a balance between pricing and brand identity [17][19].