Japan's drugstores just hit $67 billion in sales—surpassing supermarkets by selling groceries, prescriptions, and cosmetics under one roof. Discover the hybrid retail revolution reshaping Japanese commerce.
◆Introduction: How Japanese pharmacies evolved into lifestyle superstores that are winning the retail war
In 2024, Japan's drugstore industry crossed a historic milestone: 10 trillion yen ($67B) in total sales. These aren't your typical pharmacies—they're hybrid retail powerhouses combining food, medicine, beauty products, and digital health services. Join Sakura and Professor Haru as they explore how companies like Welcia, Matsumoto Kiyoshi, and Cosmos Pharmaceutical are disrupting traditional supermarkets through strategic M&A, EDLP pricing, and innovative co-location with pharmacies. This episode reveals the front-end/back-end business model driving Japan's most dynamic retail transformation.
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https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUB176I10X10C25A9000000/
Welcia Holdings Unveils New Food-Focused Store Format — Nine Locations Planned by FY2026, in Partnership with Aeon
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUC169SN0W5A910C2000000/
Create SD to Use M&A as a Growth Driver, Targeting Small Pharmacy Chains and Supermarkets
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUC09AKX0Z00C25A9000000/
AJS Chairman Tajiri: ‘Industry Consolidation Is Inevitable
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUC101RZ0Q5A111C2000000
Sugi Pharmacy Uses Its App to Sharpen Customer Service — Revenue Rises for 15th Straight Mid-Year Period
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOFD266890W5A920C2000000/
MatsukiyoCocokara, a Standout in M&A, Aims for ROE Above 12%
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUC209DD0Q5A820C2000000/
Sundrug’s April–September Net Profit Up 7% as Price Hikes Lift Food Unit Prices
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOTG144030U5A111C2000000
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