Uniqlo is reportedly set to reshape its physical store strategy, shifting away from standardised shopping centre locations and towards large-format flagship stores in major Japanese cities.

According to Nikkei Asia, the Fast Retailing-owned apparel retailer aims to grow its network of Japanese flagship stores to around 20 over the next decade.

The move marks a departure from Uniqlo’s traditional expansion model, which relied mainly on standard-format stores in suburban shopping centres and roadside locations. 

Instead, the retailer is increasingly investing in high-profile stores designed to offer a stronger brand and customer experience.

Uniqlo already operates global flagship stores in Tokyo’s Ginza and Osaka’s Umeda, with future openings potentially targeting cities including Nagoya and Sapporo, as well as high-traffic districts such as Shibuya in Tokyo.

The strategy is already gaining momentum. Earlier this month, Uniqlo announced plans to open a global flagship store in Kyoto in November, targeting a location expected to attract both domestic shoppers and international visitors.