Core Viewpoint - The decline of a product or industry may not solely be due to a lack of consumer need, but rather a deeper issue related to the core capabilities of the company [2][3]. Group 1: Market Analysis - The kimono retail market in Japan has seen a drastic decline from 20 trillion yen in 1975 to approximately 2 trillion yen in 2023, a drop of 90% [10]. - The sales of Kyoto Monfu, a company specializing in kimono, plummeted by 90% as well, reflecting the broader market trend [12]. Group 2: Strategic Decision-Making - In response to the declining kimono market, Kyoto Monfu's fourth-generation heir, Akira Arakawa, recognized the need for a strategic pivot rather than merely calling for a return to traditional culture [15]. - The critical question posed was not about what else could be sold, but rather what core capabilities remained if the kimono industry disappeared [16]. Group 3: Core Competency Identification - Kyoto Monfu identified its unique "deep black" dyeing technique as its core competency, which could be leveraged in new markets [18][23]. - The dyeing process involves three steps: basic dyeing, using a unique agent that allows the fabric to "absorb" light, and a patient drying process that enhances the quality [19][20][21]. Group 4: Market Adaptation - The company recognized a shift in consumer behavior towards second-hand clothing, driven by environmental concerns and a desire for sustainable fashion [26]. - In 2013, Kyoto Monfu launched the "PANDA BLACK" project in collaboration with WWF Japan, focusing on revitalizing old garments through their dyeing expertise [28][29]. Group 5: Business Model Innovation - Kyoto Monfu opted to partner with established retailers like BEAMS and Isetan to reach consumers, rather than attempting a direct-to-consumer model, which was outside their expertise [31][33]. - This collaboration created a win-win situation where consumers could address their old clothing issues, retailers gained new revenue streams, and Kyoto Monfu maintained its core capabilities [35][37].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the departure of Sun Dongxu from Dongfang Zhenxuan, highlighting the events leading to his exit and the impact of his leadership on the company [4][18][23]. Group 1: Background of Sun Dongxu - Sun Dongxu, born in 1986, graduated from Nankai University with a degree in computer science and technology. He joined New Oriental in 2007, marking the beginning of an 18-year career within the organization [10]. - He held various positions within New Oriental, eventually becoming the CEO of Dongfang Zhenxuan, a live-streaming e-commerce platform, during its strategic transformation in 2021 [11]. Group 2: Achievements and Challenges - Under Sun's leadership, Dongfang Zhenxuan adopted a unique approach to live-streaming e-commerce focused on cultural knowledge, which initially faced challenges in audience growth [14]. - The turning point came in June 2022 when the company gained significant traction, with a five-day increase of 5 million followers and single live-stream sales exceeding 30 million [14][15]. - Despite these successes, a crisis emerged in December 2023 due to a controversy involving a "small essay" incident, leading to Sun's dismissal as CEO [17][18]. Group 3: Impact and Legacy - Sun Dongxu's tenure at Dongfang Zhenxuan was marked by the establishment of a strong "iron fan" culture, fostering deep customer loyalty and high satisfaction rates, with a member repurchase rate 2.7 times higher than regular users [19]. - His strict product quality control measures contributed to building consumer trust, as evidenced by a 99.3% satisfaction rate among users [19]. - The article concludes with a reflection on Sun's departure, indicating it marks the end of an era for Dongfang Zhenxuan, while also noting the potential for future collaboration between him and the company [23][24].