Starbucks and CCC expand paid lounge model in Tokyo

Starbucks and CCC (the operator of Tsutaya Books) are expanding a new business model in Tokyo known as ‘LOUNGE & CAFE’. This collaborative format features a mix of standard seating and time-based paid lounges.

In many station-adjacent locations, the number of free seats has been significantly reduced to a minimum, while the majority of the floor space is dedicated to ‘SHARE LOUNGE’ areas that require a fee, such as approximately 1,500 yen per hour. This shift is part of CCC’s strategy to expand its coworking and lounge business amid a shrinking rental market. While Starbucks-only stores do not appear to be removing free seating, the joint ventures are increasingly adopting this model to manage long-stay customers and improve profitability.