Focus: Asia Franchise Markets April 2016 | Seite 3

Overview of the Market. Japan Market At a Glance Japan’s economy is recovering moderately with the economic growth forecast for 2014 at 1.4%. Consumer confidence is strong and consumption has been supported by limited to no individual debt. Due to the size, status and sophistication of the Japanese market, it is regarded as a trend-setter and origin of content for all Asia. Because of this, Japan offers a great test bed for franchisors wishing to enter Asia as a whole. The World Bank reported that consumption in 2012 was 61% of GDP.. Retail food sales were just shy of $500 billion and expenditure was $3,735 per capita, representing the second biggest expense behind housing. In October 2012 there were 1,286 franchising chains with 245,263 outlets. 2012 total sales were ¥22.2 trillion equating to around 10% of overall retail sales. In order, the biggest sectors: 1. Retail. 2. Convenience store. 3. Restaurant. 4. Service sector. Approximately 39.6% of total turnover at franchised outlets is from convenience stores (CVS) and about 18.1% from food service chains. The biggest growth (14% increase) 2011-2012, was seen in the internet and TV shopping sectors. Key Franchise Points * 23% of household expenditure goes on food compared to 5-7% in the US and 10-12% in Europe.