50 -year convenience store

Modern residents in Japan are almost unable to imagine that there is no convenience store. It is called here ConnibThese stores are functional in various aspects as the cornerstone of Japanese society in many ways. However, they have only half a century. In 2024, they are the 50th anniversary of the establishment of a franchise convenience store, which is Toyosu’s 7-11. In addition to its invention products and adaptation time, Konbini’s lasting existence can also be attributed to sociological factors: Konbini strengthens local communities and creates social infrastructure by adapting to social change.

The first Japanese convenience store

On May 15, 1974, Japan’s first 7-11 was in ToyosuIt is part of Tokyo’s brother’s district. Today, it is famous for its family -friendly community and the new TSUKIJI fish market. The owner Kenji Yamamoto is now in the 1970s. At that time, he renovated his family’s alcohol store and established the first Konbini. He was only 24 years old. Initially, it meant a grocery store with limited necessities, but opened longer.

other Franchise operation of iconic convenience storesFor example, Lawson and Familymart quickly opened their doors. The first Lawson Store was opened in Toyonaka, Osaka Prefecture in June 1975, and the first Familymart franchise store was established in August 1978 in Funabashi, Chiba County.

Yamamoto (the center shown in the figure) At the opening ceremony of the first 7-11, it was provided by 71st Japan

Origin of the United States

7-11 Japan’s convenience store concept is adopted from the company’s American counterpart. Ironically, the 7-11 store in the United States will soon carry items inspired by Japanese convenience stores, such as chicken lighting rice balls and Moss ramen. this The highly anticipated move It was announced in July 2024 (two months after the Toyosu 7-11 celebrating its half anniversary) symbolized the unique identity and success of Japanese convenience stores in the entire circle.

From sunglasses to Onigiri: Innovation and convenience

So, how is this small small convenience store in 7-11 is essential in Japan? When Yamamoto opened a store for the first time, he had the top -level sales products of the supermarket and prepared a necessity on the store, such as canned food and detergent. The first one sold is a pair of sunglasses.

Eat late at night

Shortly after the opening of the first store, there were two changes in 7-11, which will be the result. First of all, the store started operations 24 hours a day in 1975, which was the revolutionary advantage at the time. The store also started selling onigiri and Oden (Hot pot) In 1978 and 1979, respectively.

It is now considered to be a classic Konbini item. These snacks are very convenient for those who are late, because there is nothing else after a regular working time. In particular, Onigiri (traditionally considered a simple family cooking meal or snack) has made great contributions to the rise of the convenience store industry, and continues to flourish with today’s endless flavor.

Provided by seventy -one Japan

Maximize efficiency

In addition to providing more and more delicious and practical foods, convenience stores have also expanded the service scope they provided in the next decades. In the 1980s and 1990s, they began to handle parcel delivery and public business bills, installed ATMs and copy machines, and of course there were toilets. These innovations allow customers to quickly go to Konbini to take care of all the errands, thereby gradually promoting a effective lifestyle.

In addition to convenience: community pillar

As the rapid acceleration of urban life has increased the demand for efficiency, the demand for convenient stores in metropolitan regions has been increased. According to the data released by the Japan Franchise Association this month, in December 2024, there were 55,736 convenience stores in Japan. In 2024, I also saw the annual sales of seven major franchise rights in the country Reaching a record of 118 trillion yenEssence

NHK’s seven mobile sales

Adaptive diversity

The lasting existence of Japanese convenience stores can be attributed to the reliability of the number of more and more single families and the reliability of reliable and reliable items. However, the ability to adapt to social change in convenience stores is not just to provide products and services: they enhance the local community in a meaningful way.

Delivery services and mobile sales, such as individuals who cater to houses. The franchise association also launched a regional “security station” campaign in the 1990s, which was implemented nationwide in 2005. The movement involves responding to women and children in the crisis, supporting the elderly with dementia, and preventing young people from crime. During the COVID-19 period, a variety of hot meals were launched for remote workers. The convenience store also provided indispensable disaster assistance for the 2011 Greater East Japan earthquake and tsunami.

Yamamoto celebrates his 50th anniversary of the establishment of his store. Provided by seventy -one Japan

One person business

Journalist Hideko Yoshioka has reported in the convenience store for 20 years. He told him NHK She regards the franchise store industry as “human business”, which seems to be contradictory for some people. However, in many suburbs and rural areas, Konbini occupies a refurbishment space for local stores that previously often operates. Although the store may be new, the relationship between the owner and the corporate spirit with the community remains unchanged. The owner carefully planned the display of each store and maintains the needs of customers.

Yamamoto Comment He will be creative and innovative every day in the remaining parts every day [his] Life. “The root cause of people -centered is the core of Cumini. Although it is not obvious, its unique charm and long -lasting positions are still developing in culture.

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