With the Lunar Near Year just around the corner, Starbucks Japan has teamed up with 165-year-old Kyoto doll and figurine maker, Shimada Koen, on a new Year of the Snake collection.
Shimada Koen first began crafting its figurines in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district back in 1859. The iconic brand has teamed up with Starbucks several times over the past few decades and now it has joined forces once again to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Snake. Created as part of Starbucks' Jimoto Made series, Shimada Koen's new Chinese zodiac figurines include tiny snakes in gold, white, and black. The snakes are inspired by Shimada Koen’s specify, gosho ningyo, or "palace dolls," which are known for their cherubic design. Each of the snake figurines is also branded with a tiny star, the symbol of the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, on its coils.
The entire Shimada Koen collection is available as of December 13, 2024, from Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo.
Tiny Chinese Zodiac Figurines
Starbucks Japan Teams Up with Shimada Koen for the Year of the Snake
Trend Themes
1. Cultural Collaborative Products - Brands are increasingly partnering with traditional craftsmen to create products that blend modern aesthetics with cultural heritage.
2. Lunar New Year Merchandise - Companies are releasing limited edition products tied to the Lunar New Year to tap into a growing market for culturally significant celebrations.
3. Micro Collectibles Craze - The surge in collectible miniature items is reshaping consumer interest towards unique, small-scale artistry and exclusivity.
Industry Implications
1. Luxury Giftware - The intersection of high-end retail and cultural craftsmanship is paving the way for luxury giftware brands to offer exclusive artisanal pieces.
2. Cultural Tourism Retail - Retail experiences are increasingly focusing on regional artistry, enhancing cultural tourism through exclusive merchandised collaborations.
3. Specialty Coffee Retail - Cafes like Starbucks are expanding their brand identity by integrating exclusive, culturally-themed merchandise into their store offerings.