One of Japan’s most recognisable department stores was closed today due to industrial action; the first time in 60 years that strikes have hit the sector.

Owned by Seven & i Holdings, Sogo & Seibu is a chain of ten department stores across Japan, with the Ikebukuro district’s flagship store attracting 70 million visitors each year. Despite this, the chain hasn’t made a profit in five years, leading to the decision by Seven & i to sell the stores to US investment group Fortress.