Core Viewpoint - MUJI is experiencing a store closure trend in China, attributed to operational adjustments and increased competition from local brands offering better price-performance ratios [1][2][3]. Group 1: Store Closures and Operational Adjustments - MUJI announced the closure of its store in Beijing's Shimao Gong 3 Mall, effective August 31, 2025, citing operational efficiency as the reason for the closure [1]. - The company maintains that it plans to open approximately 40 new stores annually, having opened 15 stores since March 1, 2025 [1]. - The closure of the Shimao Gong 3 store is not an isolated incident, as another store in Beijing's Guorui City also closed earlier in the year [1]. Group 2: Market Competition and Consumer Sentiment - The rise of local brands such as Miniso and Netease Yanxuan has intensified competition, with these brands offering similar products at significantly lower prices, often 1/3 to 1/2 of MUJI's prices [2][3]. - Consumer dissatisfaction with MUJI's pricing and perceived quality has been growing, with complaints about high prices not matching product quality [6][7]. - A notable example includes a consumer comparison where a similar scented machine costs 59 yuan from a local brand versus MUJI's price of 258 yuan [7]. Group 3: Legal Challenges and Brand Identity - MUJI has been embroiled in a long-standing trademark dispute with Beijing Cotton Field Textile Co., which has further complicated its brand identity in China [4][5]. - The Supreme People's Court upheld Beijing Cotton Field's ownership of the "MUJI" trademark for home textiles, which has led to brand confusion and diminished MUJI's unique market position [5]. Group 4: Future Outlook - Industry experts suggest that MUJI may need to adapt its business model to focus on price competitiveness and faster fulfillment to survive in the evolving retail landscape [8]. - The company may face further store closures if it does not adjust its pricing strategy and operational model to better compete with local alternatives [8].

Core Insights - MUJI, once a favorite among the middle class for its minimalist design and lifestyle, has faced challenges in the Chinese market due to rising competition and consumer dissatisfaction with pricing and product quality [1][5][10] Group 1: Brand History and Market Position - MUJI was founded in 1980 in Japan, initially focusing on low-cost products and quickly gaining popularity [1] - The brand entered the Chinese market in 2005 and expanded aggressively, achieving significant sales growth from 2014 to 2016, with a peak growth rate of 45.7% in 2016 [2] - As of August 2024, MUJI has over 400 stores in China, making it the second-largest revenue source after Japan [3] Group 2: Consumer Perception and Challenges - Despite its initial success, MUJI has faced criticism for high prices, with products often priced 30% higher than in Japan, leading to a perception of poor value [5][10] - The brand has seen a decline in sales across its core categories, with revenue growth not translating into profit, as evidenced by a 22.8% drop in operating profit in 2022 [5][11] - Quality issues have also plagued the brand, resulting in numerous consumer complaints and regulatory penalties [7][10] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The rise of alternative brands, such as Miniso, which offers similar products at significantly lower prices, has intensified competition for MUJI [10][11] - E-commerce has further increased competition, with brands like NetEase Yanxuan providing high-quality, cost-effective alternatives [10] Group 4: Future Opportunities - MUJI is attempting to regain consumer interest by lowering prices and introducing new product lines tailored to local preferences [12][15] - The company has launched a new store format, "MUJI500," focusing on affordable daily necessities to attract a broader customer base [15] - Continued innovation in product development and a shift towards community-based store locations are seen as essential for MUJI's future success in China [15]