我什么都没做错，但过往的行业“蛋糕”，突然没有了

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that the decline of a product does not necessarily mean that the company is obsolete; rather, it highlights the importance of retaining core capabilities to adapt and survive in changing markets [2][3]. Group 1: Market Decline and Adaptation - The traditional kimono market in Japan has seen a drastic decline, dropping from 20 trillion yen in 1975 to approximately 2 trillion yen in 2023, a 90% decrease [8]. - The company Kyoto Monogatari faced a 90% drop in sales, illustrating the severe impact of market changes on traditional businesses [10]. - The fourth-generation heir of Kyoto Monogatari, Akira Arakawa, recognized that merely calling for a return to traditional culture would not suffice; instead, he opted for a strategic migration to adapt to the new market realities [13][14]. Group 2: Capability Assessment - Arakawa conducted a capability assessment, realizing that the company's true value lay in its unique dyeing technique, specifically the "extreme deep black" dyeing process [22]. - The dyeing process involves three key steps: basic dyeing, the use of a proprietary agent that allows the fabric to "absorb" light, and a patient drying process that enhances the quality of the dye [19][20][21]. Group 3: Market Opportunities - As consumer preferences shifted towards second-hand clothing due to economic and environmental considerations, Kyoto Monogatari identified a new market opportunity [24][26]. - The company launched the "PANDA BLACK" project in collaboration with WWF Japan, which involved revitalizing old garments by dyeing them black, thus appealing to modern consumers [27]. Group 4: Business Model Innovation - Kyoto Monogatari chose not to directly serve consumers but instead partnered with established retailers like BEAMS and Isetan to leverage their market presence, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved [30][32]. - This strategic partnership allowed Kyoto Monogatari to maintain its core capabilities while effectively reaching consumers through established retail channels [34].