Why Are Local Shops Closing While AEON Keeps Opening Stores?

I keep seeing comments asking why local shops are closing while Japanese retailers like AEON keep opening more stores. I don’t think they found some secret opportunity.

AEON, especially MaxValu, is simply convenient. The prices are reasonable, the stores feel clean, and the food looks fresh. If that model keeps getting customers, has the money to expand, and sells things people need every day, of course they keep opening more.

A shop closing doesn’t mean the demand disappeared. People still need groceries. They just buy them somewhere else.