Lawson reports record high sales and profits for fiscal 2026 first half

Lawson reported record-high sales and profits for the first half of the 2026 fiscal year (March–August 2026). Consolidated operating revenue rose 3.2% year-on-year to 641.5 billion yen, while business profit increased 7.6% to 66 billion yen. Net profit grew 5.7% to 40.5 billion yen.

A key driver of this growth was an increase in customer numbers, which rose 0.5% for existing stores. Lawson noted that it was the only one of Japan’s three major convenience store chains to see an increase in customer traffic during this period. The average daily sales per store also reached a record high of 608,000 yen.

Success was attributed to various marketing initiatives, such as the ‘Morisugi Challenge’ volume promotions, and strong performance in fast food categories like ‘Karaage-kun’ and in-store prepared foods. Additionally, the company utilized its ‘AI. CO’ ordering system to optimize product assortment across approximately 8,000 stores, helping to reduce stockouts and food loss. Looking ahead, Lawson plans to expand its ghost restaurant business to 2,300 stores and grow its international presence, including a goal of 100 stores in Mumbai, India, by 2030.