Japan is known for its world-class convenience stores, or konbini (コンビニ), which offer an astonishing variety of products and services 24/7. These stores go far beyond snacks and drinks, providing freshly made meals, bill payment services, ATMs, and even event ticket sales. While many chains exist, a few dominate the market. Let’s explore the biggest convenience store brands in Japan.
7-Eleven Japan
Owned by Seven & I Holdings, 7-Eleven is the largest convenience store chain in Japan, with over 20,000 locations nationwide. Originally an American brand, it found massive success in Japan after being acquired by the Ito-Yokado group. In 2023, 7-Eleven Japan brought in $5.9 billion in revenue.
Why 7-Eleven Stands Out:
High-quality ready-to-eat meals, including onigiri (rice balls), sandwiches, and bento boxes
Exclusive premium products under the “Seven Premium” label
Reliable and easy-to-use ATM services for both locals and international visitors
Wide variety of drinks, including exclusive coffee blends from its self-serve Seven Café machines
According to the BrandValuer app, 7-Eleven Japan’s brand is worth an estimated $3 billion.
FamilyMart
FamilyMart is Japan’s second-largest konbini chain, with over 16,000 locations. It has a strong focus on fresh food and high-quality ingredients, making it a favorite among customers. In 2023, FamilyMart brought in $3.3 billion in revenue.
What Makes FamilyMart Special:
Famous for its hot snacks, especially the Famichiki (a crispy fried chicken cutlet loved nationwide)
Strong collaborations with local and international brands for seasonal and limited-edition products
Convenient mobile payment and loyalty programs integrated with its FamiPay app
Stylish and modern store interiors that cater to a younger demographic
According to the BrandValuer app, FamilyMart’s brand is worth an estimated $1.6 billion
Lawson
Lawson started in the U.S. but became one of Japan’s most iconic konbini brands. With around 14,000 locations, it differentiates itself with a focus on premium food offerings and health-conscious products. In 2023, Lawson brought in $16 million in revenue.
Key Features of Lawson:
Natural Lawson: A sub-brand focused on organic, healthy, and low-calorie products
Loppi Machines: A self-service kiosk for buying event tickets, reserving travel packages, and more
Strong emphasis on uchi café (in-store café) items, including fresh-baked sweets and specialty drinks
Collaboration with high-end brands, offering limited-time gourmet products
According to the BrandValuer app, Lawson’s brand is worth an estimated $9.5 Million.
Ministop
Ministop is a smaller chain compared to the big three but still has a significant presence with over 2,000 stores in Japan. It is unique in that it offers an in-store kitchen that serves freshly prepared items In 2023 Ministop brought in $528 million in revenue.
Why Ministop is Worth Visiting:
Signature soft-serve ice cream (softcream), considered one of the best among konbini
Freshly made snacks like hotdogs, fried potatoes, and kakigori (shaved ice desserts)
A more relaxed atmosphere with seating areas inside many stores
Focus on high-quality, freshly made hot food rather than prepackaged meals
According to the BrandValuer app, Ministop’s brand is worth an estimated $261.3 million.
Daily Yamazaki
Daily Yamazaki is a smaller but well-loved konbini chain that focuses on fresh-baked goods. Many locations have an in-house bakery that prepares pastries, sandwiches, and even specialty bread. In 2023, Daily Yamazaki brought in $487 million in revenue.
What Makes Daily Yamazaki Unique:
Wide selection of freshly baked bread and pastries
More emphasis on traditional and home-style Japanese foods compared to competitors
Some stores double as a bakery café, offering a dine-in experience
According to the BrandValuer app, Daily Yamazaki’s brand is worth an estimated $248.2 million.
The Role of Convenience Stores in Japanese Life
Japanese konbini are more than just places to grab snacks — they are an essential part of daily life. Whether you need a quick meal, Wi-Fi, office supplies, or even a place to print documents, these stores have you covered. The constant innovation and competition among the major chains ensure that customers always have access to high-quality, fresh, and affordable products.
So next time you visit Japan, be sure to step into a konbini and explore the incredible variety of products they offer — you might be surprised by how much they have to offer beyond just convenience.
