Top 10 Convenience Store Chains in Japan by Market Share

Introduction

Convenience stores, known as “konbini” in Japan, play a vital role in the daily lives of Japanese people. These stores offer a wide range of products and services, such as food, drinks, household items, and even bill payment services. In this report, we will explore the top 10 convenience store chains in Japan based on their market share.

1. 7-Eleven

7-Eleven is the largest convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of over 20%. The company operates more than 20,000 stores across the country and is known for its wide selection of products, including ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and beverages. 7-Eleven is a subsidiary of Seven & i Holdings Co., which is a leading retail group in Japan.

2. Lawson

Lawson is the second-largest convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of around 14%. The company has over 14,000 stores nationwide and is popular for its freshly prepared food items, such as onigiri (rice balls) and bento boxes. Lawson is owned by Mitsubishi Corporation, a diversified Japanese conglomerate.

3. FamilyMart

FamilyMart is another major player in the Japanese convenience store market, holding a market share of approximately 13%. The company operates over 16,000 stores in Japan and is known for its wide range of products, including snacks, desserts, and hot beverages. FamilyMart is part of the FamilyMart UNY Holdings Co., a retail group with a presence in various Asian countries.

4. Ministop

Ministop is a popular convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of around 5%. The company has over 2,000 stores across the country and is known for its fried chicken and dessert offerings. Ministop is owned by Aeon Co., one of the largest retail companies in Japan.

5. Daily Yamazaki

Daily Yamazaki is a smaller convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of approximately 3%. The company operates around 1,000 stores nationwide and is known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Daily Yamazaki is owned by Yamazaki Baking Co., a leading bakery company in Japan.

6. Seicomart

Seicomart is a regional convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of about 2%. The company has over 1,000 stores in the northern part of Japan and is known for its local food offerings, such as seafood and dairy products. Seicomart is part of the Seicomart Group, a Hokkaido-based retail company.

7. Circle K Sunkus

Circle K Sunkus is a well-known convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of around 2%. The company operates over 1,000 stores nationwide and is popular for its selection of snacks, drinks, and daily necessities. Circle K Sunkus is owned by the Lawson Group, which also operates the Lawson convenience store chain.

8. Poplar

Poplar is a regional convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of approximately 1%. The company has over 500 stores in the Chubu region of Japan and is known for its affordable prices and friendly service. Poplar is owned by Poplar Co., a retail company based in Nagoya.

9. Three F

Three F is a smaller convenience store chain in Japan, with a market share of about 1%. The company operates around 300 stores in the Kanto region of Japan and is known for its selection of bento boxes and snacks. Three F is owned by FamilyMart UNY Holdings Co., which also operates the FamilyMart convenience store chain.

10. NewDays

NewDays is a convenience store chain that primarily operates in train stations and airports in Japan, with a market share of approximately 1%. The company has over 300 stores in high-traffic locations and is known for its grab-and-go meals and snacks. NewDays is owned by JR East Retail Net Co., a subsidiary of East Japan Railway Company.
In conclusion, the convenience store market in Japan is highly competitive, with numerous chains vying for market share. While 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart dominate the industry, smaller players like Ministop and Daily Yamazaki also have a significant presence. Each convenience store chain offers a unique selection of products and services, catering to the diverse needs of Japanese consumers.