Marketing in Japan is always changing and evolving, and Japanese consumers have unique standards on which products they would buy. But what do they check before buying products?
What Japanese Consumers Are Checking
We will list five things Japanese consumers check before buying products. Japanese may be strict on product selection standards but there are exemptions to this one. Here it is.
Safety and Security First
You might find almost all Japanese products claim that their products are safe and secure, and that’s because Japanese consumers always check and think about them.
The most essential aspect for a Japanese consumer is always the safety and security. They will not waste their money and risk their life and health for something that is unsure or not secure. Without that aspect, expect that Japanese consumers will not even consider your product an option.
Latest and Trendy That Catches Attention
Japanese consumers love new things. When it comes to novelty, expect Japanese will be looking out for it and it won’t be long til the products will be sold out or the line in the new store will be long.
Just like there’s a new product, you might be interested in it. Japanese consumers like new things and jump in the bandwagon right away. And if there’s another product or store, the move right on it again. A good product is always essential but Japanese consumers always like something fresh, new and up to the market.
Quality and Details
Quality and details are important for Japanese consumers. If a product happens to have any scratches, it will be complained about. Similarly to food and produce, it should always be fresh. Expect the Japanese consumers to be checking and looking highly to the quality and details of not only the products itself but also how you set up your store. It will not sell at all if they notice that it is of mediocre or poor quality.
Reviews and Word Of Mouth
The basis of most Japanese consumers purchasing decisions goes down to reviews or word of mouth. They check the reputation of the product or stores based on the actual third-party evaluation or experience. Based on American Express Report, when it comes to new purchases, Japanese and other countries like Mexico and India value corporate reputation the most. About 20% Japanese consumers based on social media, plus 35% corporate reputation making it all 55% for “reputation”, as a criteria in buying new items or new stores.
Brands
Japanese consumers are loyal to brands and are known to be brand-oriented. Gucci and Louis Vuitton are well-loved by Japanese. Sales in Japan in the Louis Vuitton brand was up for 26% in 2006. Recently, Other Japanese consumers had been moving away from mass luxury products but then reputed brands are still a strong choice and they still check brands due to the value and long-term trust on the brand.
Conclusion
What do you think about what Japanese consumers check on before buying? What are the other things you think Japanese consumers need to consider before purchasing? Let us know in the comments.
References:
https://santandertrade.com/en/portal/analyse-markets/japan/reaching-the-consumers