Online resale marketplace Mercari is giving consumers in United States direct access to inventory from millions of sellers on the Japan-based platform. Mercari also has opened a physical store in Los Angeles.
U.S. shoppers can now explore Mercari x Japan and browse an expansive selection of rare and hard-to-find items as part of a recommerce product offering that will open up direct access to inventory from millions of Mercari Japan sellers. U.S. shoppers can browse items, ask questions and complete purchases in English. As for getting the goods, Mercari is working with The Beenos Group, an industry leader in international transactions, the company stated.
“This launch is the first time we are connecting our U.S. and Japanese marketplaces, enabling U.S. shoppers to purchase items from millions of sellers in Japan,” said John Lagerling, U.S. CEO of Mercari. “When we thought about the future of resale, cross-border shopping was a natural next step in Mercari’s evolution as a truly seamless global marketplace. Interest in Japanese fashion, toys and collectibles has been steadily increasing in recent years, and the strength of the U.S. dollar makes it a great time for our customers to be able to buy directly from Japan.”
From its 2013 start in Japan, Mercari has been pushing the expansion of recommerce, offering product categories including home, beauty, apparel and electronics, along with collectibles and other distinct assortments such as vintage goods. Now, Mercari is opening its first physical retail store on L.A.’s Melrose Avenue. Shoppers visiting Mercari on Melrose can check out a variety of popular and unique products available on the website, including a curated collection hand-picked from Japan during August. The store features a space for sellers to list items, a dedicated space for DIY classes and events and a partner pop-up area, among other features.
“We’re excited to provide a place for people to experience the magic of Mercari in person,” Lagerling added. “Our new store on Melrose brings to life what millions of customers love about our marketplace. Our goal is to offer a look at the diverse selection of fashion finds available on Mercari and inspire ideas for what’s possible with resale, all through an immersive storefront with friendly and welcoming service.”
