Japanese shoppers have a variety of healthy consumer package goods (CPGs) to choose from offered in several types of retail outlets from convenient stores to supermarkets, specialty stores and high-end shops in luxury stores. Like American consumers, they are interested in snack foods, unique flavors and ingredients, and food “experiences.” But unlike Americans, third-party certifications aren’t valued as much, but presentation is king.
Lisa Mabe, founder and CEO of GreenPurse PR, observed these aspects of the Japanese retail landscape during a recent visit where she was conducting shopper research. In this podcast with Sandy Almendarez, editor in chief, INSIDER, Mabe recounted her top takeaways of the Japanese specialty food market, including:
- The ubiquity of matcha in lattes, smoothies, baked goods, candies and more.
- The large presence of beef and dried seafood on the market,
- Tips for U.S.-based brands that are exploring launching products in Japan.
Links and resources:
- #GetInHerCart Blog—Travel Notes from Japan | Market Observations from Grocery Retail
- #GetInHerCart Blog—Japanese Specialty Food for the American Market
Got feedback? Email Sandy at Sandy.Almendarez@informa.com, or tweet to @NatProdINSIDER using the hashtag #INSIDERPodcast.