- A Yokohama department store reopened on January 2, 2026, attracting shoppers eager for "lucky bags."
- The store increased the number of discounted "lucky bags" by 30% to cater to consumers concerned about rising prices.
- Despite many stores staying closed, Sogo Yokohama reopened considering employee working conditions and meeting diverse holiday shopping desires.

A: Hey! Did you hear about the department store opening in Yokohama?
B: No! Really? What's happening?
A: They opened early for the New Year! Lots of people were there.
B: Wow! For the *lucky bags*?
A: Exactly! Everyone’s looking for good deals.
B: I saw pictures! They gave out horse-shaped candies too, right? It’s the year of the horse!
A: Yep! Super cute. Apparently, people are still watching their money, so the lucky bags are popular.
B: Makes sense with prices going up. Did anyone get lucky?
A: A dad bought a bag of clothes for his kid. He said it helped a lot!
B: That’s smart! I heard some stores stayed closed this year.
A: Yeah, lots did. Short on workers, I guess?
B: So Sogo Yokohama opened, though! Good for them.
A: They gave their employees a day off too. That’s nice!
B: So people want deals, but they also want to enjoy the New Year!
A: Totally! The store prepared lots of things for everyone.