Sounds good: Japan's Aiwa thrives even as its main market shrinks

Article Abstract:

Japanese audio-equipment maker Aiwa has doubled sales and tripled pretax profits since 1990 in an industry where its competitors struggle. President Hajime Unoki led the way when he arrived 10 years ago by moving production overseas, pioneering a now-common strategy. Distribution costs are now the target, with most steps handled offshore and just a few dealers, each taking large lots. Rising competition among makers of mini-component stereo systems is pushing Aiwa to subcontract production of 14- and 20-inch TVs.

Management, Audio equipment industry, Aiwa Company Ltd.

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Strange moves: in Japan, sexertainment reveals bizarre versatility

Article Abstract:

Japan's sex industry is driven by boredom and fads rather than the poverty that underlies it in most of Asia. Popular recent innovations include image clubs, or ime-kura, where salarymen can live out a range of fantasies. Some businesses sell used panties, body hair, saliva, or urine, even including photos of the woman; others let customers cut the hair of the women. Perhaps more dangerous are sex-delivery services that sometimes involve schoolgirls seeking pocket money, a far cry from the geisha girl of old.

Miscellaneous personal services, not elsewhere classified, Prostitution, Innovations

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