The entry into Japan of Wal-Mart Stores Inc. of the United States, the world's largest retailer, will throw the industry into chaos as it struggles for survival amid the deepening recession.
Industry sources said Wal-Mart's entry will accelerate the sector's reorganization following the collapse of supermarket chain Mycal Corp. in September and the massive financial support for ailing retailer Daiei Inc.
Wal-Mart will acquire the right to put Seiyu Ltd., a major supermarket chain, under its global umbrella by obtaining a 66.7 percent equity stake in it.