Convenience store chains in Japan are looking for ways to boost sales amid fierce competition. In a bid to attract customers, companies are branching out with new business tie-ups.
Japan's biggest chain, Seven-Eleven, recently launched a bicycle-sharing service in partnership with Softbank. Bikes can be reserved online, then picked up and dropped off at any affiliated store. Seven-Eleven Japan plans to expand the service to 1,000 outlets nationwide.
The second largest chain in Japan, Family Mart, has a slightly different strategy. It plans to open a store with a 24-hour fitness club directly above it in February, and another with a laundromat service next spring.
The No. 3 chain, Lawson, has been offering nursing care consultation services since 2015. The company now provides the service at more than 10 stores. Advice from certified nursing care workers or care managers is available free of charge.
◆branch out事業の手を広げる
◆outlet店舗、小売店
◆laundromatコインランドリー
