A new era of leadership and innovation at home shopping giant Japanet Takata reshapes Japan’s retail scene.
In the heart of Sasebo City, Nagasaki, the bustling operations of Japanet Takata unfold—a company that stands as a beacon of innovation in Japan’s retail landscape. This episode takes us behind the scenes to reveal a day in the life of Akito Takata, who has taken the helm from his father, Akira Takata, transforming the company into a powerhouse of home shopping.
Originally a modest camera shop, Japanet Takata was catapulted into the limelight by Akira Takata, who pioneered its venture into television shopping in 1994. His visionary leadership rapidly turned it into a household name, known for its dynamic live broadcasts and a vast array of products. Now, under Akito’s stewardship, the company is redefining itself, steering towards a strategy that emphasises quality over quantity. In a bold move, Akito slashed the product lineup from 8,500 to just 777, focusing on high-quality offerings that promise customer satisfaction.
The operations at Japanet are a marvel of efficiency and coordination. On any given day, the company manages up to 85,000 customer calls through its eight national call centres, processing as many as 55,075 orders. This showcases a logistical prowess centred around its four national distribution centres, supporting its nationwide reach.
A typical broadcast day at Japanet is a flurry of activity. Cameras roll from set to set, with presenters seamlessly transitioning between products, all choreographed with the precision of a well-oiled machine. They execute more than 2,222 live broadcasts a year.
The episode sheds light on the pressures of live broadcasting, where every second counts. The narrative captures a tense moment during a countdown to a new product launch, reflecting the high-stakes environment in which the team operates. The broadcast team’s ability to maintain composure and deliver under pressure is a testament to their professionalism and the rigorous training they undergo.
An emotional highlight of the episode is the ceremonial ‘passing of the baton’ from Akira to Akito, symbolising a new era for Japanet. The founder’s retirement day was marked by heartfelt exchanges and a commitment by Akito to uphold the legacy of his father while carving out his own path in the company’s history. The weight of this responsibility is palpable as Akito expresses his dedication to the company’s ethos and his deep respect for the foundation laid by his father.
Akito’s leadership style is a blend of reverence for Japanet’s traditions and a progressive approach towards innovation. He personally engages in the quality assessment of products, a practice exemplified during a live segment where he addresses customer feedback directly. This hands-on approach not only underscores his commitment to quality but also fosters a culture of transparency and responsiveness.
Adding to the complexity of his role, Akito is spearheading new ventures that extend beyond traditional retail. He is venturing into travel and local experiences, aiming to transform Japanet into a lifestyle brand that curates unique experiences for its customers. This strategic pivot is designed to leverage the company’s expansive network and marketing expertise to promote local tourism and undiscovered destinations across Japan.
His approach to transforming the business has paid off, with the company surpassing the sales record from his father’s era, achieving sales of 262.5 billion yen (SGD 2.27 billion) in 2023.
This episode’s showcase of Japanet Takata under Akito Takata’s leadership reveals a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. As he navigates the challenges of modern retail, his efforts to honour his father’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of the industry forge a new path for the company. The episode not only highlights the complexities of managing a major retail operation but also the personal journey of a leader striving to balance respect for the past with the demands of the future.
Source: CNA
