We conducted an initial support survey for a major Japanese manufacturer’s overseas expansion, focusing on Southeast Asia. The survey included visits to local retailers and investigations into the largest e-commerce platforms in the region. Based on qualitative and quantitative data from our research, we analyzed trends in competitors and similar products, contributing to valuable information collection for the company’s overseas expansion.
Request
We are considering expanding overseas for the first time and would like to consult on various matters from the initial stages.
What we can do
- Conducted a detailed interview with the overseas business representative of the manufacturer regarding the business concept.
- Narrowed down the target countries and began local research (including local retail research, similar product research, e-commerce sales performance, and user review analysis).
- Based on the research results, reported the entry strategy, promotional approach, and the plan for initial e-commerce sales to long-term store sales to the responsible executives.
The person in charge made a proposal based on our support details at the board of directors meeting, and the approval was successfully granted, confirming the overseas expansion.”
Initially, we supported the client in selecting the target market by considering the market characteristics and product details with the aim of expanding their sales channels overseas. During the research phase, we conducted a price survey of competing products in physical stores as part of the project. However, we discovered that the client’s products were being resold on local major e-commerce platforms through unofficial channels. By thoroughly investigating the selling prices and user reviews, we provided valuable insights, including positive user responses that the manufacturer had not anticipated, as well as critical information for determining product pricing and sales strategies in the local market. This project reaffirmed the effectiveness of conducting both online and offline research in the local market.
