According to the Japan Department Stores Association, July 2017 same-store sales at member stores throughout the nation (80 firms, 229 stores) decreased by 1.4% compared to the same month of last year to 546,974 million yen, thus decreasing for the first time in two months.
As a result of high stock prices and the weak Japanese currency, the wealthy class purchased luxury items, and inbound demand was also vigorous. As the majority of the stores carried out summer sales ahead of schedule at the end of June, sales posted a decrease again.
Apparel sales fell 5.0% to 163,253 million yen, thus falling for 21 consecutive months. The sales of major apparel categories were: men’s wear, 33,650 million yen (down 2.1%); women’s wear, 106,103 million yen (down 6.1%); and children’s wear, 10,658 million yen (down 5.4%).