Core Insights - The article highlights the success of a discount supermarket chain in Japan, known for its low prices and high-quality products, primarily sourced from China, and its origins in a food factory in Dalian [1][4]. Group 1: Business Model and Growth - The supermarket operates with a cost-driven "everyday low price" strategy, leveraging a self-owned supply chain to maintain competitive pricing and quality [4][8]. - From 2015 to 2024, the supermarket's net sales grew by 154.7%, with an average annual growth rate of approximately 10.9%, and it accounted for over 90% of the parent company's total sales [4][6]. - The number of stores increased from 713 to 1084 over ten years, with an average of 37 new stores added annually, indicating a steady expansion pace [4][6]. Group 2: Supply Chain and Product Strategy - The company has developed a "food production and sales integration" system over nearly 30 years, allowing it to offer low-priced, high-quality products [8][9]. - The product range includes national brand (NB) items, local private brand (PB) products, and imported PB products, focusing on uniqueness, low prices, and high quality [9][10]. - As of Q3 FY2025, the sales proportion of self-owned brands was 34.3%, with goals to increase this to over 40% by FY2026 [10]. Group 3: Franchise Model and Operations - The supermarket employs a convenience store-style franchise model, with only 4 out of over 1100 stores being company-owned, allowing for a focus on product development and support for franchisees [11][12]. - Each store typically covers an area of about 150 tsubo (approximately 490 square meters) and selects 2500 to 3000 products from a total of around 7000 SKUs [12]. - The main revenue source comes from wholesale of products produced by the company's factories and directly imported goods, rather than franchise fees [12]. Group 4: Market Adaptation and Future Plans - Initially avoiding fresh produce due to high spoilage rates, the company has adapted its strategy to include limited fresh and alcoholic products based on market trends [13][15]. - The company is expanding into the restaurant sector with new brands and aims to enhance existing stores through renovations and upgrades [13][15]. - The company strategically avoids high-rent urban areas, focusing on suburban locations and adhering to a principle of opening one store for every 50,000 residents to ensure profitability [15][16]. Group 5: Competitive Advantage - The supermarket's success is attributed to its focus on supply chain advantages and a balance between cost-effectiveness and product variety, appealing to budget-conscious families while providing a unique shopping experience [16].