Tohan Corp., one of Japan’s major book wholesalers, has recently made an exciting announcement that is set to shake up the book industry in the country. The company has introduced a new delivery method called „Honyal,“ which aims to make it easier for smaller bookstores to access a wide range of books and increase the diversity of offerings in the market.
Traditionally, bookstores in Japan have relied on wholesalers like Tohan Corp. to supply them with books and magazines. These wholesalers store the books and magazines purchased from publishers in their warehouses and deliver them to bookstores and convenience stores on a regular basis. However, the high transportation costs associated with frequent deliveries have made it difficult for smaller bookstores with limited budgets to access a wide variety of books.
With the introduction of the „Honyal“ delivery method, Tohan Corp. is now able to make deliveries of smaller quantities of books to bookstores, cutting down on transportation costs and making it more feasible for stores with limited space and resources to stock a diverse selection of books. This new approach is a game-changer for the industry, as it not only lowers the barriers to entry for new bookstores but also encourages existing stores to expand their offerings and cater to a wider range of customers.
The decision to exclude magazines from the deliveries under the „Honyal“ method is a strategic one, as it allows Tohan Corp. to focus solely on delivering books and streamline the process. By limiting deliveries to about once a week, the company can ensure that bookstores receive a consistent supply of books without the added cost of frequent deliveries. This move is not only cost-effective but also more environmentally friendly, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
The timing of this announcement is significant, given the decline in the number of bookstores nationwide over the past decade. According to the Japan Publishing Organization for Information Infrastructure Development, the number of bookstores in Japan has decreased from 15,602 in fiscal 2013 to 10,918 in fiscal 2023. This trend has raised concerns about the future of the book industry in Japan and prompted the government to take action to revitalize bookstores.
In conclusion, Tohan Corp.’s new „Honyal“ delivery method is a welcome development that is set to breathe new life into the book industry in Japan. By making it easier for smaller bookstores to access a wide range of books and encouraging new entrants to the market, this innovative approach has the potential to revitalize the industry and create a more diverse and vibrant literary landscape in the country.