🛍️ Rakuten and eBay Team Up
Japan's Rakuten Group is partnering with eBay to test U.S. demand for used Japanese fashion goods. This trial started on May 8 with seven vendors from Rakuten's second-hand goods unit, Rakuma. The goal is to leverage the yen's low value, as the currency trades near a 34-year low, making Japanese goods cheaper for U.S. buyers.
📉 Currency Effect and Market Demand
The weak yen provides a unique opportunity for Rakuten and eBay to introduce Japanese used fashion goods to U.S. customers. Kenichiro Hasegawa, General Manager of Rakuma, emphasized that Japanese users treat their luxury goods gently, adding value to second-hand items. "To say something is 'used in Japan' gives some immediate value," Hasegawa said.
📦 How the Partnership Works
eBay lists selected goods from Rakuma on its site, and a Rakuten-contracted vendor manages shipping and customer service in the U.S. This collaboration focuses on used fashion and accessories, known for their good condition. eBay takes commissions on sales, which aligns with its business model where used and refurbished items make up about 40% of its gross merchandise volume.
🌍 Future Expansion Plans
If the trial succeeds, Rakuten aims to expand the partnership to all Rakuma shops and users. The ultimate goal is to extend Rakuma's offerings to other eBay markets like Canada, the UK, Germany, and Australia. Naoki Kitamura, eBay Japan's head of category management, highlighted this potential expansion, clarifying that the goal pertains to the Japan business specifically.
Will you buy second-hand fashion from Japan?
