Sneakers are hot in Southeast Asia right now.
HOUYHNHNM's: Are there any new developments related to the "atmos" store recently?
Kojima: We are aggressively opening new stores overseas. . Our focus is on Southeast Asia. This month, we opened our third store in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and we plan to open our third store in Jakarta, Indonesia, in January 2013.
HOUYHNHNM's: Why the focus on Southeast Asia?
Kojima: Sneaker culture in Japan, Europe, and the United States is already mature and the market has reached a plateau. . On the other hand, I feel that the culture and market in Southeast Asia have a lot of momentum, and there is still room for growth.
HOUYHNHNM: Are you going there too, Kojima-san?
Kojima: I have been there several times. All the streets are lively and the atmosphere is reminiscent of Harajuku circa 2000. There are many glitzy young designers and charismatic, popular creators leading the scene. . In fact, there are many local street brands that are not well-known in Japan but have broken through and become successful there.
HOUYHNHNM: How about in Japan?
Kojima: We currently have no plans to increase the number of men's stores, but we will renovate each store to create a more premium space. We are also planning to create stores that offer a different experience from our existing stores, one that enhances the experience. We continue to focus on women's stores and hope to gradually expand them throughout the country.
HOUYHNHNM: Only a few days left in 2022. How will "atmos" be open during the year-end and New Year's holidays?
Kojima: It depends on the store. Stores in station buildings and commercial facilities follow the business days of those facilities, but major street stores are basically open all year round.
HOUYHNHNM: Open on both New Year's Eve and New Year's Eve?
Kojima: Yes . We have new items to be released early in the New Year, so please come visit our store and we look forward to serving you in 2023 as well.
