Daiso Fun Facts: The 100 Yen Store That Rose from Adversity

Whether you're a new immigrant or a student, Daiso is likely a treasure trove in your daily life! Filled with all sorts of quirky and useful items, most of the products are priced at a flat rate, making it incredibly affordable to shop to your heart's content. Even if there's no Daiso near you, don't worry—many Daiso products are available on Amazon. Today, let's dive into the fascinating story behind this 100-yen store.

The Birth of Daiso: An Amazing Achievement in Adversity

Daiso, a well-known 100-yen store with over 5,000 locations worldwide, was founded by Hirotake Yano, whose life story is filled with drama and unexpected turns. He was once a boxing trainee for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, later enrolling in the evening division of a technical college. His life took many twists and turns, and after getting married, he took over his father-in-law’s fish farming business, only to fail within three years, incurring a debt of 7 million yen. To repay his debt, Yano tried various jobs, from encyclopedia sales to recycling, but none succeeded.

Then, in 1977, Yano decided to change his approach and renamed his mobile stall business “Yano Store” to “Daiso Sangyo.” His belief was that even a small business needed a big-sounding name! This name eventually became the brand behind the globally renowned 100-yen store. Yano also made a unique decision in his business—pricing all products at 100 yen. Initially, this was just to avoid the hassle of setting different prices, but it turned out to be the key to success.

Negative Management Philosophy: The Unconventional Mindset Behind Success

Hirotake Yano's management philosophy was incredibly "negative." He often downplayed his own company, publicly declaring, "This company won't last long." He even criticized his own products, calling them "junk," and frequently praised competitors, claiming his own company had nothing special. But this unusual attitude contributed to Daiso's unexpected rise. By 1995, Daiso's annual revenue had exceeded 30 billion yen, making it the flagship brand of 100-yen stores.

Today, Daiso operates over 5,200 stores worldwide and develops over 1,200 new products each month. Many of their outdoor products, known as "miracle items," are cleverly designed and easy to carry, making them perfect for everyday life.

Must-Have Daiso Product Recommendation: Daiso Detergent Cleaning for Makeup Puff and Sponge

If you're a makeup enthusiast, you'll love this cleaning product from Daiso—the Daiso Detergent Cleaning for Makeup Puff and Sponge. This cleaner is specifically designed for makeup sponges and puffs, with a portable 80ml size that's perfect for travel. Its high efficiency allows you to effortlessly remove makeup residue, including foundation, concealer, and powder, in just two minutes.

All you need to do is spray the cleaner onto your sponge or puff, gently rub it, and rinse it off—just a few simple steps to restore your makeup tools to their pristine condition. This product is also available on Amazon, making it easy to enjoy the convenience that Daiso brings, even from home!

Click here to buy 👉 Daiso Detergent Cleaning for Makeup Puff and Sponge

The success story of Daiso is not only a business miracle but also a source of inspiration. Hirotake Yano’s unique management philosophy helped build an empire in the world of 100-yen stores, rising against all odds. For Daiso fans, be sure to check out their star product—the Daiso Detergent Cleaning for Makeup Puff and Sponge. Whether for daily use or travel, this cleaner ensures your makeup tools remain in top shape. Even if you don't have a Daiso nearby, you can easily find these handy products on Amazon. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to share it with your friends or browse Amazon to discover even more Daiso gems!