Core Viewpoint - Uniqlo, founded by Tadashi Yanai, has become a remarkable success story in Japan and China, thriving even during economic downturns, with significant annual profits from the Chinese market [2][3][4]. Group 1: Company Background - Uniqlo is recognized as the most successful company in Japan over the past 30 years, with its founder, Tadashi Yanai, having been the richest person in Japan eight times [3][4]. - The company was established in 1984 during Japan's economic collapse, aligning its brand positioning with the consumer shift towards minimalism and cost-effectiveness [7]. Group 2: Market Performance - As of 2023, Uniqlo operates over 900 stores in China, expanding at a rate of 80 to 100 new stores annually, with the Greater China region contributing 40% to its global revenue [8]. Group 3: Competitive Advantages - High cost-performance ratio: In a trend of consumer downgrading, Uniqlo's products are increasingly valued for their affordability and quality [9]. - Versatile basic styles: The brand focuses on easy-to-wear clothing that appeals to a broad audience, from high-income urban dwellers to budget-conscious consumers [10][11]. - Effective marketing of hit products: Uniqlo excels at creating popular items that enhance brand visibility and drive sales across its product range [12]. Group 4: Product Development Strategy - Uniqlo's success in launching hit products is attributed to the collaborative involvement of various departments in product planning, with store managers having significant input on product improvements and customer feedback [16].