Kenji Yamamoto’s first convenience store in Tokyo, opened in 1974, faced uncertainty but has since transformed into a Japanese retail institution. Konbini, as they are known, offer a range of products from food and drinks to clothes and stationary. With over 56,000 konbini in Japan, the industry is worth billions of yen. The stores attract fierce loyalty from customers debating which chain offers the best products. Beyond Japan, companies like Seven-Eleven and Lawson are expanding worldwide. Despite a saturated market and an aging population, competitors continue to innovate with new products like fashionable Famimā socks. The konbini experience has become an essential part of Japanese life.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/nov/08/coffee-sandwiches-underwear-beer-day-in-the-life-japan-konbini-stores