How long before we see this in USA? Seems like the thing to do - although I have no idea if this has proven to be successful in other markets - like Europe where it's been tried before.
6-day Week for Isetan, Mitsukoshi
THE ASAHI SHIMBUN
2008/12/29
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Isetan Mitsukoshi Holding Ltd. announced over the weekend that it will revive its custom of closing its department stores for one day once a week.
Under measures to take effect as early as April, it said it would also cut back operating hours.
The operator hopes to save some 2 billion yen a year by reducing staff and utilities costs, officials said.
Sales at Isetan and Mitsukoshi flagship stores dropped around 10 percent in the first half of December from the same period in 2007.
Currently, only New Year's Day is a fixed holiday at both Isetan and Mitsukoshi stores.
The two chains scrapped their weekly closed days in 2000. Department stores had reduced shop closing days while extending operating hours since the 1990s.(IHT/Asahi: December 29,2008)
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