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Tag: uniqlo

  • Uniqlo Seeks Advantage from US-Vietnam Tariff Agreement to Boost Market Position

    Uniqlo Seeks Advantage from US-Vietnam Tariff Agreement to Boost Market Position

    In a significant shift for the retail landscape, tariff reductions between the U.S. and Vietnam are set to ease the financial pressure on companies like Uniqlo, the popular casualwear brand that heavily relies on Vietnamese manufacturing. This move comes at a crucial time as global supply chains continue to navigate the challenges posed by rising tariffs.

    Tariffs Take a Tumble

    Speaking on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the previously proposed 46% tariff on imports from Vietnam would be slashed to a more manageable 20%. This news has been met with optimism from various sectors, particularly in retail, where the costs of sourcing apparel can make or break profit margins. While the Vietnamese government has yet to reveal details on the agreed tariff levels, the reduction is undoubtedly a welcome gift for Uniqlo, which has built a robust supply chain in Vietnam.

    Impact on Supply Chains

    This tariff cut is expected to bolster Uniqlo’s operations as it continues to harness the efficiency and productivity of Vietnamese manufacturers. With Vietnam already being a linchpin in Uniqlo’s supply chain strategy, these new developments may allow the retailer to further reduce costs and potentially pass on savings to consumers. In an age when customers are more price-conscious than ever, this could prove to be a savvy move.

    A Surprising Twist in Trade Relations

    The ongoing trade dynamics between these two nations have undergone numerous twists and turns, making this reduction a somewhat unexpected yet delightful surprise. Retail brands aiming for a competitive edge will likely keep a close eye on these changes, translating these potential savings into strategic business decisions.

    Looking Ahead

    As retailers like Uniqlo brace for a changing tide in tariffs, stakeholders are watching how this newfound flexibility will influence pricing strategies and market competitiveness in Asia. The ramifications of these tariff modifications extend beyond simple numbers, hinting at a broader narrative of increasing collaboration between the U.S. and Vietnam in the retail sector.

    Questions & Answers

    How will the reduced tariff affect Uniqlo’s pricing strategy?
    The tariff reduction is likely to allow Uniqlo to lower costs associated with its supply chain, which could enable the brand to offer more competitive pricing to customers.

    What prompted the U.S. to lower the tariff on Vietnamese imports?
    The decision comes amid ongoing negotiations and assessments of trade relationships, reflecting a need for a more balanced approach in tariffs that supports both nations’ economic interests.

    What broader implications could this tariff reduction have?
    This reduction could foster stronger trade relations between the U.S. and Vietnam, setting a precedent for further cooperation in the retail sector and beyond, potentially encouraging additional U.S. investments in Vietnam.

  • Uniqlo Set to Debut in South India with Exciting New Store in Bengaluru!

    Uniqlo Set to Debut in South India with Exciting New Store in Bengaluru!

    Retailers in Asia are facing a significant market shift as consumer spending trends evolve amid a changing economic landscape. With inflation and cautious consumer sentiment on the rise, businesses are strategizing to capture attention in an increasingly competitive environment.

    Adapting to Consumer Sentiment

    For many retailers, the focus is shifting from unconditional loyalty to a deeper understanding of consumer behavior. Brands are working tirelessly to adapt, employing data analytics to glean insights that go beyond the shopping cart. A recent survey revealed that 62% of consumers are now prioritizing value over brand allegiance, significantly impacting purchasing decisions across sectors.

    This newfound pragmatism has prompted retailers to reconsider promotional strategies, ensuring that discounts and offers align tightly with customer expectations. Some companies are even getting playful, testing quirky ad campaigns that resonate with younger audiences while remaining relatable—a refreshing departure from the usual marketing motifs.

    Investing in Sustainability

    Sustainability has taken a primary seat at the strategy table for numerous brands aiming to woo environmentally conscious shoppers. As greenwashing becomes a more serious issue, authentic commitment stands out. Retail giants are increasingly investing in sustainable supply chains and eco-friendly practices, with reports indicating a 25% uptick in consumer willingness to pay a premium for sustainable products.

    Brands like Uniqlo and Zara have rolled out extensive recycling programs, encouraging customers to return old garments while promoting a circular economy. The early adopters are seeing positive feedback, proving that a commitment to sustainability is not just a trend—it’s becoming a consumer expectation.

    Digital Transformation and E-Commerce Growth

    The pandemic hurled the retail sector into a digital renaissance, and now, e-commerce is not just a complementary channel but often the primary shopping avenue. Many brands are enhancing their online presence with immersive shopping experiences that merge practicality with engagement. Virtual try-ons and live-stream shopping events have become staples in the arsenal of savvy retailers, capturing the attention of a tech-savvy demographic yearning for connection.

    Moreover, social commerce is skyrocketing, with platforms like TikTok and Instagram evolving into marketplaces where sales can happen with a simple swipe. As the line between social interaction and shopping continues to blur, retailers are finding innovative ways to turn idle scrolling into spending.

    Understanding Regional Nuances

    It’s essential for retailers to recognize that Asia is not a monolith. Consumers in Southeast Asia have distinct tastes compared to their counterparts in East Asia, influenced by local cultures, economic conditions, and social dynamics. Brands that embrace these regional differences—by localizing products and marketing strategies—are often the ones that emerge victorious in this complex landscape.

    As retailers gear up for the future, the ability to blend tradition with innovation will be crucial. After all, in an age where consumer preferences can swing like a pendulum, agility may well be the most valuable asset.

    Questions & Answers

    How are retailers adapting to changing consumer sentiments in Asia?
    Retailers are focusing on understanding consumer behavior through data analytics and are shifting their promotional strategies to prioritize value, reflecting consumers’ increased price sensitivity.

    What role does sustainability play in modern retail strategies?
    Sustainability is becoming a key element for retailers, with many investing in eco-friendly practices and transparent supply chains to meet the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers.

    How is digital transformation impacting retail in Asia?
    Digital transformation has led to significant e-commerce growth, with brands enhancing online experiences through innovative technologies and social commerce, turning platforms into marketplaces.

  • Uniqlo Unveils Ambitious Expansion Plan Amid Rising Demand In Asia

    Uniqlo Unveils Ambitious Expansion Plan Amid Rising Demand In Asia

    In a recent shake-up within the retail sector, the iconic Japanese fashion retailer, Uniqlo, has confirmed plans to expand its presence in Asia, unveiling an ambitious strategy to open 50 new stores across key markets in the region over the next year. This move comes as the company seeks to capitalize on the rising demand for affordable yet trendy apparel among Asia’s rapidly growing middle class.

    Accelerated Growth Amid Global Challenges

    Despite facing headwinds from global supply chain constraints and the lingering effects of the pandemic, Uniqlo’s executives remain optimistic. In a statement, the company highlighted its commitment to sustainable practices and innovative product offerings, which are expected to be central to its new store openings. As the world becomes increasingly eco-conscious, Uniqlo plans to leverage its reputation for quality and affordability to attract a loyal customer base.

    A Unique Brand Experience

    What sets Uniqlo apart from its competitors is its philosophy of “LifeWear”—a commitment to creating functional, everyday clothing that seamlessly blends style with comfort. The company is not just about selling clothes; it’s about crafting an experience that resonates with consumers’ lifestyles. With its latest initiatives, Uniqlo intends to enhance its in-store environment, incorporating technology that allows customers to engage with the brand in more meaningful ways. Imagine scanning a QR code and instantly discovering outfit inspirations!

    Responding to Consumer Trends

    The surge in online shopping during the pandemic has prompted Uniqlo to bolster its digital presence, complementing its physical stores. With a robust e-commerce strategy in place, the retailer is ensuring that its customers can enjoy a seamless shopping experience, whether online or in-store. In fact, with investments in AI and personalized marketing, shoppers may even find themselves greeted by name on their next visit. Talk about a warm welcome!

    Looking Ahead

    As the retail landscape evolves, Uniqlo’s expansion plans embody its belief in the resilience of brick-and-mortar stores, especially in vibrant markets like Asia, which brims with lifestyle enthusiasts eager to explore new fashion trends. The excitement around this expansion is palpable, and as many have noted, maybe it’s time to make some room in your closet!

    Questions & Answers

    What regions will Uniqlo focus on for its new stores?
    Uniqlo is concentrating on expanding in key markets across Asia, tapping into the growing demand for affordable fashion.

    How is Uniqlo adapting to changes in consumer behavior?
    The retailer is enhancing its digital presence and integrating technology into its shopping experience, allowing customers to engage with the brand more actively.

    What is the core philosophy behind Uniqlo’s product offerings?
    Uniqlo’s philosophy, known as “LifeWear,” emphasizes creating functional, everyday clothing that combines style and comfort, catering to the lifestyle of contemporary consumers.

  • Uniqlo Launches New Game Model Worn by Global Brand Ambassador, Roger Federer

    Uniqlo Launches New Game Model Worn by Global Brand Ambassador, Roger Federer

    UNIQLO, Japanese global apparel retailer announces that it will offer replica game wear and other items worn at the 2019 Wimbledon Championships by its Global Brand Ambassador, Roger Federer. Items will be available from July 1, 2019 (Monday) at UNIQLO Orchard Central Flagship store and UNIQLO.COM. The new game wear model was developed by the design team at the UNIQLO Paris R&D Centre, led by Artistic Director Christophe Lemaire, in consultation with Roger Federer.

    Roger Federer – “It’s now been a year since I partnered with UNIQLO, and I still clearly remember the excitement of first walking on court in UNIQLO at last year’s Wimbledon Championships. I’m thankful to the design team at UNIQLO, and I appreciate UNIQLO’s efforts to have a vision beyond sports through its LifeWear philosophy. I’m looking forward to this year’s outfit as well as the many more opportunities to come.”

    Roger Federer model: A classic design for a classic tournament – The Roger Federer polo features a classic cutaway collar and design that is well suited to this traditional tournament and Roger Federer’s elegant playing style.

    Jointly developed by UNIQLO and Toray Industries, Dry EX features a special arched structure that dries faster than ordinary dry function material, preventing the steamy and sticky feeling due to perspiration to maintain comfort throughout play. The raised structure is well suited to the strenuous movements of tennis. Highly breathable mesh has been used in areas that accumulate sweat, helping to avoid overheating and allowing the athletes to be at their best during competitions.

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  • Uniqlo Unveils Plan For Flagship Store In Shanghai: An Eco-friendly Fusion Of Innovation And Elegance

    Uniqlo Unveils Plan For Flagship Store In Shanghai: An Eco-friendly Fusion Of Innovation And Elegance

    In an exciting turn of events, Japanese clothing giant Uniqlo has unveiled plans for a brand-new store opening in the bustling heart of Shanghai, slated for early 2024. The store, strategically located in the iconic Jing’an district, aims to cater to the tastes of both local and international shoppers, promising a fresh blend of fashion innovation and classic elegance.

    Expanding Horizons

    Uniqlo’s parent company, Fast Retailing, is setting its sights on expanding its footprint in Asia’s dynamic retail landscape. The opening in Shanghai reflects the brand’s commitment to tapping into the vibrant lifestyle of one of China’s largest metropolises. This move comes on the heels of a surge in demand from consumers seeking quality, on-trend apparel that resonates with their daily lives.

    Additionally, the Shanghai store will showcase Uniqlo’s newest technology in retail design, featuring interactive displays and sustainable materials that align with modern consumer expectations. This new flagship store is not only about selling clothes; it’s about creating an immersive shopping experience.

    Eco-Friendly Endeavors

    With sustainability becoming a core value for consumers, Uniqlo is taking substantial steps towards eco-friendliness. The Shanghai site is set to incorporate energy-efficient systems and environmentally conscious practices. From recycled packaging to sustainable sourcing of materials, the brand is echoing its commitment to reducing its environmental impact while delivering stylish and functional apparel.

    Emphasizing local culture and community engagement, Uniqlo is also on the lookout for collaborations with local artists and designers to feature unique collections that resonate with the spirit of Shanghai. Shoppers can expect a delightful fusion of global trends infused with local flair, providing an ever-refreshing experience.

    A Fashionable Future

    As Uniqlo continues to innovate, the upcoming Shanghai store represents not just a new location, but a booming future for retail in the region. With a playful approach to fashion and a commitment to sustainability, Uniqlo aims to enchant both long-time customers and new visitors alike. Who knows, maybe this will be the place where consumers not only find their next outfit but also their fashion muse.

    Questions & Answers

    What will the new Uniqlo store in Shanghai feature?
    The new Shanghai store will showcase innovative retail design, interactive displays, and sustainable materials aimed at enhancing the shopping experience.

    When is the grand opening of the Shanghai store?
    The much-anticipated store is set to open its doors in early 2024, drawing both locals and tourists alike.

    How is Uniqlo addressing sustainability?
    Uniqlo is committing to eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient systems, recycled packaging, and sustainable sourcing methods to minimize its environmental impact.

  • Man arrested for making and selling 200,000 counterfeit Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo socks

    Man arrested for making and selling 200,000 counterfeit Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo socks

    In a recent case of intellectual property rights violation, a man in Hanoi was found guilty of manufacturing and selling 200,000 fake Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo socks. The counterfeit items were being retailed at wholesale prices between VND4,500–5,000 (US$0.18–0.20) per pair.

    Investigation and Prosecution

    The Economic Police Department in Hanoi reported the prosecution of Nguyen Van Thien, 51, for the aforementioned offense. The investigation divulged that Thien had initiated a sock manufacturing and trade business in Quoc Oai District in 2015. He initially supplied socks to various companies under his own brand named “Thien Duong”.

    In 2018, Thien observed the surging demand for socks adorned with popular brand logos such as Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo. Consequently, he started producing counterfeit versions of these highly sought-after socks.

    Fraudulent Business Operations

    Thien arranged for the procurement of knitting machines, instructing the suppliers to pre-install the logos of Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo into the machine software. He also sourced labels and tags from unregulated producers and hired four workers to operate the machines and manage the packaging process.

    A raid conducted on January 4 unveiled a large stock of counterfeit socks. The authorities confiscated 3,450 pairs of socks with the Adidas logo, 14,400 pairs with the Nike logo, and 2,100 pairs bearing the Uniqlo brand. They also found 1,500 loose socks branded with Nike logo. The authorities seized over 10 machines, 200 heat-molding frames, and nearly 70 kg of labels in total.

    Extent of the Counterfeit Operations

    The investigators discovered that Thien had been producing and distributing counterfeit socks since 2022. He is estimated to have sold around 200,000 counterfeit socks with a total market value of more than VND240 million (US$9,400).

    These fake socks were primarily sold at a profit margin of about 25% via various e-commerce platforms, social media, and suburban markets.

    Questions & Answers

    What was Nguyen Van Thien charged with?
    Nguyen Van Thien was prosecuted for violating intellectual property rights by manufacturing and selling counterfeit Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo socks.

    How did Thien manage to manufacture the counterfeit socks?
    Thien procured knitting machines and instructed the suppliers to pre-install the logos of Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo into the machine software. He also procured labels and tags from unregulated vendors and hired workers to manage the production process.

    Where and how were the counterfeit socks sold?
    The counterfeit socks were predominantly sold in bulk through e-commerce platforms, social media, and suburban markets, allowing for a 25% profit margin.

  • Uniqlo debuts small-format ‘touchpoint’ concept store in Singapore

    Uniqlo debuts small-format ‘touchpoint’ concept store in Singapore

    Uniqlo, the Japanese casual wear designer, has launched a new innovative retail store model in Singapore. This pioneering initiative, referred to as the touchpoint store, is located at Velocity at Novena Square.

    Revolutionizing the Retail Experience

    The touchpoint store is a unique prototype that is only 10% the size of a traditional Uniqlo outlet. The store primarily serves as a collection point for click-and-collect orders. The innovative design of the store offers an efficient, digitally integrated shopping experience for customers.

    Customers can now effortlessly place their orders through the Uniqlo App or the company’s website. The touchpoint store offers the convenience of same-day collection, with no minimum purchase requirements or additional delivery fees. This new approach redefines the retail space, providing customers with a unified online and offline shopping journey.

    Redefining the Role of Physical Retail

    Cecilia Tan, the e-commerce director for Uniqlo Singapore, has stated that the brand’s goal is to maximize the store footprint for consumers, specifically those who prefer a flexible combination of online and offline (O2O) shopping experiences.

    She highlighted that the Velocity store is a prime example of how Uniqlo is merging the efficiency of digital platforms with the accessibility of physical retail locations. Tan expressed that improving customer engagement with the brand’s LifeWear range was paramount. She emphasized the brand’s dedication to providing high-quality, thoughtful everyday wear to more consumers, regardless of their location.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main purpose of Uniqlo’s touchpoint store?
    The touchpoint store serves as a hub for click and collect orders, providing a more efficient and digitally integrated shopping experience for customers.

    How does the touchpoint store benefit customers?
    Customers can place their orders through the Uniqlo App or the brand’s website and collect them from the store on the same day without any minimum spend or delivery fees.

    What is the aim of introducing the touchpoint store, according to Cecilia Tan, the e-commerce director for Uniqlo Singapore?
    The aim is to optimize the store footprint for consumers who prefer a flexible online-to-offline shopping experience, combining digital efficiency with physical retail accessibility.

  • Uniqlo Launches Its First Touchpoint Store in Singapore, Elevating Retail Experience

    Uniqlo Launches Its First Touchpoint Store in Singapore, Elevating Retail Experience

    Uniqlo will unveil its very first touchpoint store at Velocity @ Novena Square in Singapore. This innovative space is only 10% the size of a typical Uniqlo outlet, strategically designed to cater to omnichannel shoppers seeking a seamless online-to-offline experience.

    Customers can easily browse and buy via the Uniqlo app or website, opting for Click & Collect to enjoy same-day delivery without any fees or minimum spend—talk about convenience!

    This smaller store format not only enables Uniqlo to broaden its footprint but also ensures an impressive range of products and services remain accessible. Cecilia Tan, the e-commerce director at Uniqlo, noted that nearly 50% of their customers take advantage of the Click & Collect service for its appeal. She emphasized, “The Velocity store is one way that we are combining the efficiency of digital with the accessibility of physical retail.”

    In a nod to sustainability, Uniqlo has teamed up with Cycle & Carriage Singapore to deliver Click & Collect orders using an all-electric vehicle fleet, minimizing its environmental impact. The new store is located at 238 Thomson Road, #01-01 to 04, Singapore 307683, and will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Don’t miss the special opening festivities running from June 13 to June 22—a perfect reason to check it out!

    Questions & Answers

    What is the size of Uniqlo’s new touchpoint store compared to traditional outlets?
    The new touchpoint store is just 10% the size of a typical Uniqlo outlet.

    When will the new store open for customers?
    The store will welcome customers starting June 13, and it will remain open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

    How is Uniqlo ensuring sustainability with this initiative?
    Uniqlo has partnered with Cycle & Carriage Singapore to deliver Click & Collect orders using an all-electric vehicle fleet, thereby reducing their environmental impact.

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  • Uniqlo parent expects profit lift ahead of tariff disruption

    Uniqlo parent expects profit lift ahead of tariff disruption

    The operator of Uniqlo, Japan’s Fast Retailing, is expected to post another quarter of strong earnings on Thursday, but the focus will be on how the global clothing chain navigates a trade environment thrown into disarray by new US tariffs.

    Based on the LSEG consensus forecast drawn from six analysts, Fast Retailing is expected to post a 14 percent rise in operating profit to US$866 million in the three months through February from a year earlier.

    That would be a record for the second quarter and a near doubling of the 7.4 per cent profit growth of the first quarter.

    From one store in Hiroshima, western Japan, 40 years ago, Uniqlo has grown to more than 2,500 locations across the world, selling inexpensive fleeces and cotton shirts made primarily in China and other Asian manufacturing hubs.

    But that business model has been upended by widespread tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump, along with retaliation by some of America’s trading partners.

    The company has recently looked to North America and Europe for growth due to a slowing economy in China, its largest overseas consumer market with more than 900 Uniqlo stores on the mainland.

    The tariffs will certainly be a negative for Fast Retailing, said independent analyst Mark Chadwick, but the measures will have the same impact on its retail peers and have a worse effect on other industries.

    “Textile supply chains are probably more flexible than, say auto supply chains,” said Chadwick, who writes on the Smartkarma platform. “In short, US tariffs will have a negative impact on Fast earnings looking out over the next 12 months, but less so than other global firms like Nintendo, Toyota.”

    Fast Retailing shares have fallen more than 4 percent this month as Trump laid out his tariffs plan. They are down 19 percent in 2025 after surging nearly 50 percent last year.

    Its founder Tadashi Yanai, Japan’s richest man, aims to make his company the world’s No. 1 clothing brand. Yanai, due to speak at Thursday’s earnings briefing, has long been an advocate of free trade and has defended the company’s business dealings in China when human rights concerns there have sprung up.

    Trump said Japan would be hit with a 24 percent reciprocal tariff on non-auto products, while duties on Chinese goods would rise to 104 percent.

    UBS analysts said that Uniqlo goods shipped to North America are procured from sources outside China, and Fast Retailing’s tariff costs would be an estimated $236,011 million next fiscal year, curbing business profit by about 6 per cent.

    “We will be watching closely whether a heightened price consciousness among consumers leads them to re-rate the balance between value and pricing at Uniqlo, potentially translating into business opportunities over the medium term,” UBS’s Takahiro Kazahaya wrote in a report this week.

    Fast Retailing expects operating profit to reach 530 billion yen in the fiscal year ending in August, which would be a fourth straight year of record earnings.

    Domestic sales have recently gotten a boost from a surge in duty-free shopping amid a tourism boom in Japan fuelled by a weak yen.

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  • Uniqlo to open global flagship in former Bicqlo site in Shinjuku

    Uniqlo to open global flagship in former Bicqlo site in Shinjuku

    Uniqlo is set to open a new global flagship store in Shinjuku, replacing the former Bicqlo location, as part of its aggressive expansion plan.

    In addition to offering its range of clothing and accessories, the store will feature unique elements such as Uniqlo Flower, Uniqlo Coffee, and Re:Uniqlo.

    Uniqlo Flower is located on the first floor, selling seasonal flowers and will be displayed at the store’s entrance. On the second floor, Uniqlo Coffee will serve beverages and local sweets.

    Additionally, the third floor will house Re:Uniqlo Studio where customers can access embroidery and clothing repair services, encouraging shoppers to care for and extend the life of their garments.

    To celebrate its opening, Uniqlo will release an exclusive Shinjuku Mainstore Special, which will feature select Western products not previously available in Japan; and a Shinjuku Department Store Guidebook, a booklet introducing the town, insights from staff from long-established local stores, and cultural figures from the district.

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  • Uniqlo to open 20 flagship stores in Europe, North America and Asia

    Uniqlo to open 20 flagship stores in Europe, North America and Asia

    Uniqlo is aggressively expanding its reach by opening more than 20 flagship stores in Asia, Europe, and North America from this month, taking its worldwide store count to more than 2500.

    In Asia, the Fast Retailing-owned brand will open its largest store in South Korea at the Lotte World Mall and its first overseas roadside store featuring a new design concept in Bangkok, Thailand.

    The new roadside store is based on the brand’s Maebashi Minami Inter Store with the concept that customers can learn about the company from a corporate point of view, beyond being a store where people buy their clothes.

    Meanwhile, in North America, the brand will open its first store in Houston and Dallas, Texas, and six new stores on the West Coast in California.

    In Europe, Uniqlo will debut in Poland and Rotterdam with its first physical stores in the cities, and it will open a second store in Rome Termini Station, Italy. More new flagships are planned for Coal Drops Yard in London, at Scotland, at Copenhagen in Denmark, and at Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

    Moreover, the company will open stores in India, a regional flagship store in Wuhan, China, and five major stores in Japan.

    “In recent years, the concept of LifeWear as ‘the ultimate everyday wear that enriches the lives of everyone’ has resonated with people, and brand recognition and customer base have been expanding in Europe and North America,” said Uniqlo in a statement.

    “The company will accelerate store openings in these regions, driving further growth of its global business.”

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  • Uniqlo names Clare Waight Keller as creative director

    Uniqlo names Clare Waight Keller as creative director

    Uniqlo has appointed British designer Clare Waight Keller as its new creative director.

    On top of the new appointment, Keller will continue in her role as designer for the Uniqlo: C womenswear project.

    In her new role, Keller will also lead Uniqlo’s mainline collection, including menswear, beginning this year’s fall/winter.

    “Clare Waight Keller’s work with Uniqlo: C has convinced me that she is one of the few creators in the world able to achieve a high level of balance between creation and merchandising,” said Yukihiro Katsuta, Uniqlo Fast Retailing group senior executive officer and head of research and development.

    “I believe that with her, we will be able to evolve LifeWear, the ultimate everyday wear, into something even richer and create clothes that will make our customers even happier,” added Tadashi Yanai, Uniqlo fast retailing chairman, president and CEO.

  • Uniqlo headhunts managers in Southeast Asia,

    Uniqlo headhunts managers in Southeast Asia,

    Japanese fashion retail chain Uniqlo is expanding its recruitment scheme to India and Southeast Asia where its number of stores have been growing fast.

    In the past two months, Uniqlo’s parent company Fast Retailing has been sending staff to Vietnam, Singapore and the Philippines to meet with students and university directors to discuss partnerships.

    The company has been accelerating recruitment in South and Southeast Asia because of a practical need for more human resources there, its chief adviser Noriaki Koyama said.

    “These regions have great potential for future development, and we will be able to find very talented people there,” said Koyama, who is in charge of human resource strategy.

    Fast Retailing has been setting up many new stores in South Asia, Southeast Asia and Oceania. As of February, it had 367 stores in those areas, up 14% from 2023. It now operates 13 stores in India and plans to have 28-30 outlets in next three years.

    To find potential managers, the company now partners with more than 40 universities in Asia and Oceania to organize internships at local offices and stores. In the fiscal 2023 (which ended in August), it hired 1,100 new graduates globally.

    It also seeks to be competitive in terms of compensation. “We are adjusting the pay scale for our store employees to be among the best in each country, not only in the local retail industry but also in other industries,” said Koyama.

    Around 56% of Fast Retailing management positions are given to non-Japanese staff. The company targets to bring the figure to 80% by 2030.

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  • Uniqlo elevates its T-shirt’s popularity as Singapore’s ‘national uniform’

    Uniqlo elevates its T-shirt’s popularity as Singapore’s ‘national uniform’

    Japanese fashion brand Uniqlo has launched new Singapore-exclusive colors for its AIRism oversized T-shirt, promoting it as the “SG uniform” and acknowledging its popularity as the go-to attire for Singaporean men.

    The new T-shirt colors, orange, red and dark green, were released last month at Uniqlo stores across the city-state, advertised as “The SG uniform”.

    This move indicated that the Japanese retailer is embracing the product’s ubiquity in the nation, especially among Singaporean men.

    The brand’s Singaporean website also listed the product as an “essential” fashion item, with one unit being sold almost every minute in the city-state from October 2022 to September 2023.

    Due to its prevalence, the “SG uniform” has often been a topic of discussion on social media, where Singaporean men’s basic outfit – the Uniqlo T-shirt, a pair of shorts and slippers – is often ridiculed.

    Notably, one viral video by TikTok user Sherrgoh, showing a man buying the same t-shirt in several different shades and captioned ‘SG boys shopping for their uniform in new colors,’ has gained over 1.6 million views.

    According to those who favor the oversized T-shirt, Uniqlo’s biggest appeal is its convenience.

    “I think that there are many other brands on the market that are of a similar price bracket and quality, like Muji, but Uniqlo makes it convenient to get the same piece of clothing that you know fits you well repeatedly or in different colors,” Raffli Noor, 39.

    Meanwhile, others have said that the item is both comfortable and low-key, not standing out and attracting unwanted attention.

    Singapore boasts 30 Uniqlo outlets and the highest density of Uniqlo stores outside of Japan, with approximately one store for every 189,000 people.

    The new colors for the AIRism T-shirt are not the brand’s first Singapore-exclusive release, as it had previously introduced several products inspired by Singaporean literature in collaboration with the city-state’s National Library Board in March.

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  • Uniqlo sues China rival Shein over viral bag copies

    Uniqlo sues China rival Shein over viral bag copies

    Japanese fashion giant Uniqlo said Tuesday that it is suing Chinese rival Shein over copycats of a massively popular crossbody pouch dubbed online the “Mary Poppins carryall.”

    Videos of fans praising its deceptively small size have gone viral on social media, with one clip on TikTok of a young woman unpacking numerous large items racking up more than a million views.

    The lawsuit filed in Japan against Shein Japan and two subsidiaries “demands the immediate cessation of sales of the imitation products, and compensation for damages incurred,” Uniqlo said in a statement.

    The nylon Round Mini Shoulder Bag, retailing for $19.90 in the United States, has reportedly become Uniqlo’s best-selling bag ever, repeatedly selling out.

    Shein, founded in 2008 in China and based in Singapore, has quickly conquered the global fast fashion market by catering to young customers through social media.

    Valued at $66 billion last year with revenues reportedly over $23 billion, the online retailer is eyeing a major initial public offering in New York potentially this year, the Wall Street Journal reported in November.

    The firm has been accused of exploiting unpaid labour, obscuring production processes and encouraging overconsumption as it faces the wrath of environmental and human rights activists.

    Last month, Chinese-owned online retailer Temu sued Shein in a US court, accusing it of “mafia-style” intimidation tactics to keep the upper hand in the local market.

    Shein Japan was not immediately available for comment on Tuesday.