After a much longer break than expected, BizCast Japan has finally returned with its 13th release. This edition of the show begins by discussing the massive investment in facility upgrades that we have seen at department stores in Ikebukuro, Shinjuku and Shibuya over the past few years. What is behind the billions of yen being poured into renovating these shops? In part, the opening of the new Fukutoshin subway line is expected to bring an influx of new customers who will be able to more easily access those areas. Which area and company might come out ahead?

After that, the discussion turns to Seven-Eleven and it’s planned move into the mainland China market, and then the factors behind the recent business alliance between the New Otani and Royal hotel operators. Is more consolidation to come in the Japanese hospitality industry? Will operators such as the New Otani be able to compete in the overseas markets that they plan to move into over the next decade?

The import of whale meat from Iceland and Norway is also discussed, as Japan recently imported whale meat for the first time since 1990. After that, the Tokyo real estate market is considered. As rents at new Class A office locations shot up over the past few years, vacancies have finally started to rise as the rent level seems less tolerable as no new “Midtown” or “Roppongi Hills” has opened in the past months.

Finally, our hosts consider the launch of the iPhone into the Japanese market. With the iPhone set to debut in Japan on July 11, many eyes are on Apple and how many units they can move.

As always, thank you for listening.

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