Japan’s Costco Resale Shops Struggle to Distinguish Themselves

There are only 36 Costcos in Japan — but there are nearly three times as many stores whose whole business is reselling the company’s products.

Costco has proven pretty popular in Japan. It’s so popular, in fact, that some stores have created an entire business out of reselling products purchased there.

However, according to some reports, it’s easier to start one of these stores than it is to keep it going. Here’s why these stores exist, why some resellers are struggling, and what others are doing to set themselves apart from the crowd.

The rise of Costco Japan

The Kirkland, WA-based Costco has made an international name for itself by selling bulk goods at discount prices. The chain is structured as a members-only warehouse, with individuals and businesses required to pay a small yearly fee for access. Frequent users can often earn this fee back via the store’s cashback rebate program or simply by saving money by purchasing items in bulk.

The chain arrived in Japan in 1999, with its first store in Kisaratsu City in Chiba Prefecture. It now has 36 stores across the country.

Costco has proven extremely popular here. It also ranks as one of Japan’s best hourly employers, paying higher wages than most…