阅读理解(二十八)
(1)
Despite bankruptcies,lay off and tighter comsumers spending,a few femaleled businesses in Japan are developing well.
Shizue Hamada,52,set up a business in 1991 with eight other housewives-to care for the elderly and the physically disabled.
It wasn’t long before the Tasukeai Yui(mutual -aid group) earned a reputation for its excellent service. It now employs 200 staff and has 300 million yuan(US $2.4million)in annual sales.
The woman said their business has been successful because they provide what customrs really want.
These entrepreneurs are making use of a revalized and healthy demand for everyday basic items.
Bread,for instance,is in high demand.Business woman Meiko Tanaka,26,started selling high-quality bread over the Internet in 2000.“Bread is cheap,”she said.“We migh as well eat the bread baked using the the highest-quality ingredients.”
Five women—former office workers in their late 20s—have started the“OL Food Bureau of Investigation”to review restaurants on the Internet.OL means young office lady. It’s a common nickname in Japan.