http://repub.eur.nl/res/aut/9665/ List of Publications en http://repub.eur.nl/static-eur/img/logo.png http://repub.eur.nl http://repub.eur.nl/res/pub/9667/ 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z http://repub.eur.nl/res/pub/9658/ 1993-01-01T00:00:00Z Using a rich data source, we explain differences and developments in profit margins of medium-sized stores in Japan. We conclude that the protected environment enables the retailer to pass on all operating costs to the customers and to obtain a relatively high basic income. High service levels are positively related with high profit margins, illuminating the importance of service in Japan. Small store competition does not affect performance of medium-sized stores, because small stores operate under circumstances different from those of medium and large stores. http://repub.eur.nl/res/pub/9660/ 1993-01-01T00:00:00Z The determinants of the development of small store presence in Japan are investigated using a fixed effects multinomial logit market share model. Large stores tend to have higher market shares in shop-types with increasing shares in consumer expenditures, increasing inventory turnover, and increasing diversification, but do not seem to be able to profit from scale economies in labour use.