Go Tokyo Your Experience
When it comes to claw machine prizes, most people may immediately think of toys or dolls. However, in recent years, a new type of claw machine that uses “daily necessities” as prizes has gradually emerged in Japan. The reason for their rapid popularity is that these consumables or foods can effectively meet the daily needs of families.
Therefore, parents are happy to take their children to experience this kind of entertainment, which not only satisfies the children’s fun, but also brings daily benefits to the family. In addition, in the face of stagnant wages and rising prices in Japan, this type of daily necessities doll shop is also highly regarded for its benefits. Let’s explore together the reasons for the popularity of this phenomenon.
In the past few years, Japan’s doll clamping machine market has continued to expand. Although the COVID-19 epidemic briefly caused a trough, the market size has now exceeded the level before the outbreak of the epidemic.
The morning program “THE TIME” on TBS TV in Japan conducted a special report on this, pointing out that the growth of the claw machine market does not rely on simple strategies, but is accompanied by quiet changes in market strategies.
The production team of the program visited a doll shop located in Okawa City, Saitama Prefecture.
At first glance, this place may seem no different from a regular doll shop, but upon closer inspection of the customer base, it is evident that a high proportion of parents are taking care of their children.
The secret lies in the types of prizes offered in the store.
Upon closer inspection, the prizes for these claw machines include soap, shower gel, facial tissue, sweet potatoes, chestnuts, and microwave food. These types of prizes are mostly consumables or food, unlike traditional toy prizes.
These types of doll shops, which mainly focus on daily necessities, have sprung up like mushrooms in various parts of Japan in recent years.
The reporter learned from interviews with customers that “parent-child fun” is the most attractive reason for daily necessities doll shops. Bringing children here not only allows them to enjoy the joy of playing, but the prizes won can also provide practical assistance to the family, and the price is often more cost-effective than purchasing directly.
A housewife in her thirties said, “Children can have a lot of fun here, and as mothers, the prizes we receive are very helpful for the family
She further pointed out, “I am truly grateful to have such a place that offers both entertainment and practical benefits
Another housewife in her forties shared that they had won prizes such as cleaning agents or facial tissues, which were discounted by 300 to 400 yen.
The Japan Doll Machine Association pointed out that compared to the pressure of declining wages and rising prices, the prizes in this type of store are more affordable.
While children enjoy the fun of games, parents also feel happy about the actual prizes.
In addition, such stores often choose to open in specific locations, such as directly above supermarkets or across from shopping malls.
Because these places regularly attract parents and children, the store can be located close to the customer base and effectively attract the main customer group.
So, are parents also interested in taking their children to experience this kind of parent-child fun toy store?