Japan convenience store industry H1 2026 performance

During the first half of fiscal year 2026 (March–August), Japan’s three major convenience store chains reported divergent financial outcomes.

Lawson achieved record-high sales and profits, with consolidated operating revenue rising 3.2% to 641.5 billion yen and net profit increasing 5.7% to 40.5 billion yen. The company was noted as the only major player to see an increase in customer traffic at existing stores. This growth was attributed to marketing initiatives, strong fast food sales, and the use of an ‘AI. CO’ ordering system to optimize product assortment and reduce food loss.

FamilyMart also reported record business profits of 65.1 billion yen, a 5.6% increase, driven by promotional campaigns and coffee sales, though it faced declining customer numbers at existing locations.

In contrast, industry leader Seven-Eleven Japan saw its operating profit fall 9.3% to 110.2 billion yen, a decline impacted by costs related to implementing next-generation store systems. To address consumer price sensitivity, Seven-Eleven Japan is focusing on its ‘Live-Meal’ concept and plans to launch a low-cost private brand called ‘Seven the Price’.