无印良品又行了？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the strategic transformation of Muji's parent company, Ryohin Keikaku, which has achieved record profits despite a global trend of store closures. This is attributed to a well-planned strategy focusing on operational efficiency and market adaptation in China [3][7][33]. Group 1: Store Closures and Strategic Adjustments - Muji has closed 17 stores in China during the first five months of 2025, primarily in older commercial districts, while simultaneously opening 33 new stores, resulting in a net increase of 16 stores [10][11]. - The closures are described as a strategic retreat from high-cost, low-traffic locations, allowing the company to focus on more community-oriented areas with reasonable rent [11][12]. Group 2: Financial Performance - Ryohin Keikaku reported a 19.2% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching 591 billion yen, with a net profit of 43.5 billion yen, up 30.1% [7][12]. - The revenue from the Chinese market reached 102.7 billion yen, driving a 127.5% increase in East Asia profits [7][12]. Group 3: E-commerce and Sales Growth - Muji's sales in China increased by 18.2% to 102.7 billion yen in the first nine months of the fiscal year, with same-store and online sales growing by 111.9% [13][14]. - The company is enhancing its e-commerce investments to alleviate pressure on physical stores, with online sales showing significant growth [15][14]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape and New Store Formats - Facing competition from Miniso, which has a store count ten times greater than Muji's, the company introduced a low-cost store format "MUJI 500," with 70% of products priced around 25 yuan [18][19]. - This new format focuses on smaller, community-based stores, avoiding high-end commercial areas and emphasizing local manufacturing to reduce costs [23][21]. Group 5: Localization and Sustainability - Muji is adapting its product offerings to better suit Chinese consumer preferences, including local sourcing and manufacturing to lower costs [26][27]. - The company is aligning its brand philosophy with sustainability trends, with over 80% of consumers willing to pay more for sustainably produced goods [32][31]. Group 6: Future Growth Plans - Muji plans to open an average of 50 new stores annually in mainland China by 2030, indicating a strong belief in the market's growth potential [34][35].