Japanese Supermarkets See Sales Dip in July Amid Consumer Thrift and Weather Woes
Tokyo, August 23, 2024 – Japan’s major supermarkets experienced a 1% decline in sales in July compared to the same period last year, according to data released by the Japan Chain Stores Association. This marks the first monthly decline in sales since February 2023, highlighting the ongoing impact of consumer thrift and weather-related challenges.
Theassociation’s survey revealed that total sales for major supermarkets across the country reached 1.0598 trillion yen in July. However, when comparing sales on a same-store basis, which accounts for new store openings and closures,the figure dipped by 1%.
While the overall sales picture was bleak, there were some bright spots within specific product categories. Food sales saw a modest increase of 0.9% year-on-year. This growth was attributedto rising prices for agricultural products, particularly potatoes and onions, which were impacted by adverse weather conditions.
Homeware sales experienced a more significant surge, climbing by 4.9% year-on-year. This positive performance was driven by strong demand for appliances like air conditioners and electric fans, as the country grappled with a particularly hot summer.
However, the clothing sector faced a significant downturn, with sales plummeting by 10.1% compared to July 2023. The scorching summer heat discouraged people from venturing out and shopping, leading to a decline in overall clothing purchases.
The Japan Chain StoresAssociation attributed the overall sales dip to a confluence of factors. The association pointed to the continued prevalence of consumer thrift, as shoppers remain conscious of their spending habits in the face of economic uncertainties. Additionally, the association noted that July 2024 had one fewer Saturday and Sunday compared to the same month last year,which likely impacted weekend shopping patterns.
The association’s analysis highlights the complex interplay of economic and environmental factors that are shaping consumer behavior in Japan. While the country’s economic outlook remains relatively stable, consumers are exhibiting a heightened awareness of their spending, leading to cautious purchasing decisions. Meanwhile, extreme weather events, suchas the recent heatwave, are also influencing consumer spending patterns, particularly in sectors like clothing and food.
Looking ahead, the association anticipates that the ongoing trend of consumer thrift will continue to impact supermarket sales in the coming months. However, the association also expressed optimism that the upcoming autumn season, with its cooler temperatures andassociated festivities, could potentially boost sales in the retail sector.
The association’s findings underscore the importance of understanding the evolving dynamics of consumer behavior in a rapidly changing world. As economic and environmental factors continue to influence consumer decisions, businesses need to adapt their strategies to remain competitive and cater to the evolving needs of their customers.
【来源】https://nwapi.nhk.jp/nhkworld/rdnewsweb/v6b/zh/detail/20240823_ML08.json
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