When reaching out to Japanese companies for the first time—whether by email, chat, or LinkedIn message —the initial communication carries more weight than many overseas teams expect. In Japan, the first contact  often sets the tone for the entire relationship. A poorly framed message may be ignored, while a thoughtful one can open doors to long-term collaboration. 1. First contact is about trust, not speed In many markets, first outreach focuses on efficiency: who you are,

Japan’s pet industry is one of the most developed and distinctive pet markets in the world. While the total number of pets is relatively stable, spending per pet continues to rise , driven by demographic change, urban living, and a strong tendency to treat pets as family members rather than animals. Market size and growth outlook Japan’s overall pet-related market—including food, products, and services—is estimated at around USD 21–22 billion as of 2024 . Looking ahead, many

Japan is often described as a “brand graveyard” — a market where global giants stumble despite their global fame. Yet, companies like Starbucks , IKEA , and Apple not only entered but flourished . Their journeys reveal what it really takes to win the hearts of Japanese consumers. 1. Adaptation to Local Culture Starbucks didn’t just sell coffee; it sold a lifestyle.By creating a “third place” — a relaxing space between home and work — Starbucks became part of urban Japanese

When global brands enter Japan, many assume localisation simply means translating their website or marketing materials into Japanese. Yet true localisation goes far deeper — it’s about adapting your entire offering to match the expectations, habits, and emotional preferences of Japanese consumers. Japan is a market defined by precision, subtlety, and trust . Consumers here don’t just buy a product; they buy into the story, the craftsmanship, and the sense of reliability that