Don Quijote spearheads Japan's discount store boom in Asia

Aeon and Kobe Bussan also look to expand in region

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Don Don Donki has made its mark on Asia's retail sector with cheap products imported straight from Japan. (Photo by Ryo Asayama)

RYO ASAYAMA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Japanese discount retail chains such as Don Quijote and Aeon Big are steadily expanding their presence across Asia, fueled by a smart supply chain and tricks learned from thriving through years of deflation at home.

The Don Don Donki store on central Singapore's Orchard Road has become a draw for young women in their late teens to early 20s, with visitors humming the "Don-Don-Don, Donki" jingle as they enter the store. Some customers strike poses with products in hand, others squeal with glee after coming across packs of Japanese snacks they particularly enjoy.

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