Following Japanese Internet Business Trends – Online DVD Rental Services
Renting DVDs via the Internet from computers or cell phones is gradually becoming popular in Japan. Memberships at two of the four leading online DVD rental stores, Rentrak of Culture Convenience Club (known for their entertainment rental stores throughout Japan) and Posren (a subsidiary of the major Internet portal site Livedoor), have doubled within this year.
Interestingly, different trends occur at online DVD rental stores in contrast to traditional brick and mortar rental stores. While new releases, which make up two percent of what is in stock at brick and mortar stores, bring in 80 percent of store sales, at online rental stores it is not unusual for older releases to gain similar popularity due to user reviews on the online store site.
Online DVD rental services are just an example of the numerous businesses that are moving online to respond to the changing lifestyles of those living in Japan, mainly those between their 20s and 40s who seek culture with convenience. Similar trends are occurring with television via Internet sites that provide shows on demand with commercials to keep the service free.
B.A. in International Affairs from the University of Puget Sound in Washington.