Japan's drugstore sector seems to be entering its own "Sengoku" or "country at war" era, as companies accelerate their process of reconfiguration and consolidation. This perceived hastening comes driven by the continued pressure of a highly competitive market. Various corporations are exploring different strategies, including alliances, acquisitions, and restructuring to gain a competitive edge.

Japan typically has a highly competitive market, especially in the urban areas, making the survival of single stores or small chains very challenging. People in Japan highly value convenience and the ability to purchase a variety of products in one shop. Therefore, mergers and new alliances that aim to extend product variety and services might boost customer loyalty. Legal issues, such as compliance with monopoly laws and regulations, may also be a concern, although Japan's Fair Trade Commission tends to be accommodating to restructuring that doesn't result in an obvious market monopoly.

In comparison to countries like the United States, Japanese drugstores offer a wider variety of products and are often not just limited to pharmaceutical needs. However, consolidation trends are seen worldwide, including the US and EU. In these regions, they are more focused on enhancing their online presence and delivery services, as the market shifts towards e-commerce.