Very interesting. I remember reading many years ago in the Japan Times that in Tokyo the average konbini turned over their stock 7 times a day. Any idea if this is still the case? Did you see any stats on that? Thanks
Thank you for your question. In general, you're not too far off, but the frequency of replenishment varies depending on the store, product type, and demand conditions. I did find a reference to the following guidelines:
Keep in mind, however, that stores located in densely populated urban centers are in higher demand than stores in residential areas and are restocked more frequently.
Seasonal deliveries are also a factor. Ice cream and chilled beverages are in high demand during the summer months and are restocked more frequently.
The konbini network is definitely one of the jewels in Japan's crown. As someone who enjoys exploring the back roads of Japan, the spotlessly-clean rest rooms and the wide range of snack foods available are both a godsend. I also pay all my utility bills and taxes through Lawson - and who doesn't enjoy a juicy famichiki?!
As for operating a konbini, I would be concerned that a 24/7 business would be something of a ball-and-chain, especially if it did not generate enough income to employ enough staff to give me and my family a good work-life balance. I guess location is, as usual, everything!
Thank you for reading. All good points. We are in complete agreement. I would not want to have to work incredibly long hours either. One of the testimonials touched on this topic, as you probably noticed.
Thank you for reading and providing positive feedback. Yes, for some young people this business model could be a good business opportunity. It's similar to the Super Hotel initiative to attract new, ambitious managers.
Very interesting. I remember reading many years ago in the Japan Times that in Tokyo the average konbini turned over their stock 7 times a day. Any idea if this is still the case? Did you see any stats on that? Thanks
Thank you for your question. In general, you're not too far off, but the frequency of replenishment varies depending on the store, product type, and demand conditions. I did find a reference to the following guidelines:
Perishables:
- Bento and Prepared Foods
Morning: 2 to 3 times
Afternoon: 2 to 3 times
Evening: 2-3 times
- Bread
Morning: 2-3 times
Afternoon 1-2 times
Evening: 1-2 times
Other Items:
Cigarettes: 1-2 times per week
Magazines/Books: 1-2 times per week (likely to be reduced per https://realgaijin.substack.com/p/where-did-all-the-magazines-go
Clothing: 1-2 times per week
Keep in mind, however, that stores located in densely populated urban centers are in higher demand than stores in residential areas and are restocked more frequently.
Seasonal deliveries are also a factor. Ice cream and chilled beverages are in high demand during the summer months and are restocked more frequently.
Great 👍🏽 Many thanks
The konbini network is definitely one of the jewels in Japan's crown. As someone who enjoys exploring the back roads of Japan, the spotlessly-clean rest rooms and the wide range of snack foods available are both a godsend. I also pay all my utility bills and taxes through Lawson - and who doesn't enjoy a juicy famichiki?!
As for operating a konbini, I would be concerned that a 24/7 business would be something of a ball-and-chain, especially if it did not generate enough income to employ enough staff to give me and my family a good work-life balance. I guess location is, as usual, everything!
Thank you for reading. All good points. We are in complete agreement. I would not want to have to work incredibly long hours either. One of the testimonials touched on this topic, as you probably noticed.
Thank you for reading and providing positive feedback. Yes, for some young people this business model could be a good business opportunity. It's similar to the Super Hotel initiative to attract new, ambitious managers.