Introduction to Kinokuniya
Kinokuniya is a well-known Japanese bookstore chain that was founded in 1927 by Moichi Tanabe. It started as a small bookstore in Tokyo, Japan and has now grown into an international company with over 80 stores worldwide. The name "Kinokuniya" translates to "Store of Kii Province," which refers to the ancient name of Wakayama Prefecture, where the company's first store was located.
The success of Kinokuniya can be attributed to its commitment to providing quality books and excellent customer service. The company takes pride in offering a diverse selection of books, magazines, stationery, and other products from all around the world. Its bookstores are known for their inviting ambiance and knowledgeable staff who are always ready to assist customers.
Over the years, Kinokuniya has expanded its reach beyond Japan and established itself as a global brand. It now has branches in Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America. In recent years, Kinokuniya has been making significant strides towards digital transformation by launching its online retail arm.
The Importance of Establishing an Online Retail Arm in Thailand
Thailand is a rapidly developing country in Southeast Asia, and its e-commerce industry has seen exponential growth in recent years. As more and more Thai consumers turn to online shopping for convenience and accessibility, it has become crucial for businesses to establish an online retail arm in the country. Kinokuniya, one of the largest bookstore chains in the world, recognized this trend and made the strategic decision to launch an online retail arm in Thailand.
But why is it so important for companies like Kinokuniya to have an online presence in Thailand? Let's explore the reasons behind this move and understand the significance of having an online retail arm in this emerging market.
1. Access to a Growing Market:
With a population of over 69 million people and a continuously growing middle class with high purchasing power, Thailand presents a massive market opportunity for businesses. According to a study by Google, Thai consumers spent approximately $3 billion on online purchases in 2019, and this number is expected to reach $13 billion by 2025. By establishing an online retail arm in Thailand, Kinokuniya can tap into this growing market potential and expand its customer base significantly.
2. Increasing Preference for Online Shopping:
Like many other countries around the world, Thailand has also seen a shift towards digitalization and increased internet usage. With easy access to smartphones and affordable data plans, more Thai consumers are turning to e-commerce platforms for their shopping needs.
Benefits for Customers: Convenience and Accessibility
In today's fast-paced world, convenience and accessibility are key factors that customers consider when choosing where to shop. With the rise of e-commerce, more and more customers are turning towards online shopping for its ease and efficiency. This is why Kinokuniya decision to establish an online retail arm in Thailand is a significant move that will greatly benefit its customers.
1. Convenience at Your Fingertips:
One of the major benefits for customers with Kinokuniya online retail arm is the convenience it offers. Customers no longer have to physically visit a store to browse through books and make a purchase. They can simply access the website from their computer or mobile device, browse through the extensive collection of books, and place an order with just a few clicks. This saves time and effort, making book shopping hassle-free.
2. Wide Selection of Books:
Kinokuniya physical stores are known for their vast selection of books from various genres and languages. However, not all stores may carry the exact book that a customer is looking for. With an online retail arm in Thailand, customers now have access to Kinokuniya's entire inventory of books, giving them a wider selection to choose from.
The Role of Technology in Making this Expansion Possible
Technology has been an integral part of the growth and success of businesses, especially in today's globalized world. With advancements in technology, businesses have been able to expand their reach and tap into new markets. The same can be said for Kinokuniya as it establishes its online retail arm in Thailand.
The role of technology in making this expansion possible cannot be emphasized enough. It has played a crucial role in breaking geographical barriers and creating a seamless shopping experience for customers. Here are some key ways in which technology has enabled Kinokuniya expansion into Thailand:
1. E-commerce Platforms:
One of the main reasons why Kinokuniya was able to establish its online retail arm in Thailand is because of e-commerce platforms. These platforms provide a virtual marketplace where businesses can sell their products without having a physical presence in the country. With the rise of popular e-commerce platforms such as Lazada and Shopee, Kinokuniya can easily set up its online store and reach out to customers all over Thailand.
2. Digital Marketing:
Another significant role that technology has played is through digital marketing strategies. With the use of social media, search engine optimization (SEO), and other digital marketing techniques, Kinokuniya can effectively promote its online store to potential customers in Thailand. This not only helps create brand awareness but also drives traffic to their website, resulting in increased sales.
Conclusion
As one of the largest bookstore chains in the world, Kinokuniya decision to establish an online retail arm in Thailand is a significant move that will benefit both the company and its customers. This expansion not only solidifies their global presence but also caters to the growing demand for online shopping. With this new platform, readers in Thailand can now easily access a wide range of books from various genres and languages, making it easier for them to explore and expand their knowledge. Overall, Kinokuniya step towards globalization sets a positive example for other companies looking to tap into international markets through digital platforms.
