We do a little late-night shopping in Tokyo, where no matter what the time is, there’s always somewhere for a quick, post-night-on-the-tiles pick-me-up.
A survey by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry last year revealed that seven million people in Japan, many of them elderly, struggle to make it to the shops – one million more than in 2010. As the country’s…
The importance of having a shop stocking high-quality groceries and provisions on your doorstep, which also provides meaningful interactions, has been reawakened in recent times. These delis are a world away from a soulless…
In the first of a new series of benchmark reports, Monocle puts the UK’s latest convenience store concept through its paces. Can Waitrose’s new baby live up to the standards of Japan’s kings of convenience?
Hundreds of new products are introduced every week in Japan’s 54,000 convenience stores and despite the country’s regional differences it’s not uncommon for shops to stock the same items. In an exhibition running until 19…
As the big media store chains disappear, Japan’s most successful book, music and magazine seller has opened a project that challenges everyone. We visit the floors of a refreshed retail landscape.
China accounts for more than a third of luxury spending and big brands are doing their utmost to lure its travellers. But as the Chinese consumer profile shifts to a younger, savvier, more fashion-conscious one, shops are…
Despite the convenience of online shopping, a new generation of designers, buyers and entrepreneurs are reaffirming the irreplaceable charms of in-person retail. Here are five new outlets that we admire.
Fans of army surplus store and collectors of military kit listen up. This month’s inventory is the ultimate guide to the best in desert boots, camouflage jackets and handcuffs.
Whether it’s a cosy corner shop or a well-delivered joke, there’s plenty to write home about even when we’re confined to our ’hoods. Plus: our correspondents check in from afar.
Tokyo-based company Culture Convenience Club brings together quality of life and technology in Tsutaya Electrics. The well-designed shop displays hi-tech products alongside books, plants and plenty of comfy seats.