Iconic Swedish retailer IKEA has announced the closure of its prestigious Harajuku and Shinjuku stores in early 2023, marking an end to their 26 years of operation. The closure comes as part of IKEA's ongoing business reshaping strategy. Despite the closures, the global retail giant assures to continue its presence in Japan through online platforms and smaller urban stores.

Store closures are not uncommon in Japan, but a retailer like IKEA closing its doors, representing the changing retail landscape, might prompt economic and social discussions. IKEA has played a significant part in influencing Japanese domestic settings by providing affordable and innovative home solutions, hence the news might evoke nostalgia among the people in Japan.

Just like in the US or EU, retails store closures in Japan typically correspond to changing consumer habits and shifts towards online shopping. However, the implication may have bigger ripple effects in Japan, considering the smaller geographic space and densely populated urban areas.