Adapting to Change: The Evolution of Japan’s Convenience Stores in the Digital Age

ntroduction: The Challenge of Stagnation

For about half a century, convenience stores have been an integral part of Japan’s landscape, offering 24-hour service and an array of ready-to-eat meals and desserts. However, recent years have seen a slump in customer footfall, exacerbated by the rise of online shopping. A Tokyo convenience store owner with over 35 years of experience observes a decline in young customers, a trend echoed across the industry. A survey by Nikkei on 1,000 Japanese participants revealed that while men aged 20 to 50 visit convenience stores 2 to 3 times a week, teenage girls do so only once, and teenage boys and women in their 30s increasingly avoid these stores.

Shifting Consumer Preferences

The changing shopping habits highlight a move towards thrift and value for money. Many now prefer supermarkets and drugstores, driven by a desire for better prices and a wider selection. This trend is reflected in the increased business at supermarkets, especially during late hours and for discounted items. A 40-year-old office worker shares her shift from frequent convenience store visits to almost exclusively shopping at supermarkets, seeking value and variety.