Japanese department store facing downturn

Japanese department store sales fell 2.4 per cent in November, year-on-year, the ninth consecutive monthly decline.

The Japan Department Stores Association reported total sales at 234 outlets run by 81 companies were ¥525.7 billion, (US$4.47 billion). It said it expected an improvement in December’s sales data as consumers enjoyed an end-of-year shopping spree.

November was the third consecutive month when the rate of decline had narrowed. October’s same-store sales fell 6.5 per cent.

The JDSA says most categories posted sales declines – with the notable exception of cosmetics.

Meanwhile, the Japan Franchise Association says convenience store sales in November increased 0.5 per cent year on year to ¥773.4 billion (US$6.58 billion), the second consecutive monthly improvement.