IKEA just reopened in Japan earlier this year. They were here years ago but folded up and went home, as many companies do. They hired local managerial staff based solely on their ability to speak some English so they could communicate with the HQ, not on their managerial or business skills. No localized products or design sense were introduced. Both are classic mistakes.
I went there about 3 weeks ago. The rebuilt a huge facility near Tokyo Disneyland that had been an indoor skiing center. It seemed more like a place for families to go for an outing. The massive cafeteria was filled, but people were just picking at their food and it all had a very industrial feel to it. It sure didn't look like a lot of buying going on. No lines at the registers.
Most of the stuff didn't suit my, or the girlfriend's taste. I think we bought a bowl.
I'm afraid they may not make here again. The manager had no experience in the retail industry - his qualifications seem to be that he is Swedish and already lived in Japan.
