I don't know whether he was serious or not . . . As far as I know, a bonsai tree never replaced the Christmas tree, and an American company has since reacquired the property. Just as in the 1970s and '80s when American companies were learning from Japanese business practices, I think the foreign investment that is taking place in Japan right now will bring new ideas and energy to Japanese business practices. A fourth change that I want to mention is this. In spite of the collapse of Japan's economic bubble, Japanese consumers are actually doing better than before the bubble burst.
Prices are lower.
Selection is greater. This is good. American products and American customer service are educating Japanese consumers. Japanese consumers expect more than they once did. And I believe this is healthy for our economic future.