EIYAKU provides brand consultancy to Japanese companies aiming to expand into overseas markets, especially English-speaking ones like the UK, EU, or the U.S.:
1. Market Entry Strategy
- Market Research & Feasibility Studies: Analysis of target markets, competitors, consumer behaviour, and regulatory barriers.
- Positioning Strategy: Identifying the best brand positioning based on local values, preferences, and trends.
- Market Entry Model: Advice on whether to enter via direct-to-consumer (D2C), distributors, joint ventures, or local subsidiaries.
- Pricing & Channel Strategy: Determining optimal pricing and distribution structures for profitability and scalability.
2. Cross-Cultural Branding & Localization
- Brand Localization: Adapting brand messaging, tone, and identity to resonate with Western audiences while preserving Japanese authenticity.
- Naming & Tagline Consultation: Ensuring names, taglines, and slogans translate effectively and avoid cultural misunderstandings.
- Packaging & Design Adaptation: Modification of packaging to suit overseas retail standards, legal requirements, and local aesthetic preferences.
- Cultural Training: Provision of workshops to Japanese teams on Western communication, branding norms, and consumer expectations.
3. Communication & Marketing Strategy
- Global Brand Storytelling: Creation of compelling brand narratives that highlight Japanese craftsmanship, innovation, or minimalism for foreign audiences.
- Public Relations & Influencer Outreach: Managing collaborations with overseas media, PR agencies, and influencers.
- Digital Marketing: Developing social media strategies, paid ad campaigns, and content marketing (in English and localized languages).
- Website & SEO Localization: Optimisation of websites for local search engines and user experience, including English copywriting.
4. Distribution & Partnership Development
- Retail & Distribution Matching: Identifying and negotiating with potential distributors, agents, and retailers abroad.
- E-commerce Expansion: Supporting entry into platforms like Amazon, Shopify, or region-specific marketplaces (e.g., Zalando, Farfetch).
- Trade Shows & Events: Coordinating participation in international trade fairs and fashion exhibitions.
- Logistics & Supply Chain Advisory: Help plan fulfillment, warehousing, and shipping strategies for overseas customers.
5. Brand Audit & International Readiness
- Brand Health Check: Evaluation of current brand assets, messaging, and online presence for global competitiveness.
- Competitor Benchmarking: Comparison against key international and local competitors.
- Compliance & Certification Guidance: Ensuring packaging, labeling, and product standards meet international regulations.
- Sustainability Positioning: Advise on integrating environmental or ethical narratives that appeal to Western consumers.
6. Ongoing Brand Management
- Local Brand Representation: Liaison or representative office for Japanese brands abroad.
- Performance Monitoring: Tracking KPIs (brand awareness, engagement, sales) and adapt strategies.
- Crisis Communication Support: Managing brand reputation during cross-cultural or operational issues.