便利店的生存规则“瓦解”，已经从日本开始了

Core Insights - Japan's convenience store industry, particularly 7-11, is undergoing significant changes, marking the first comprehensive adjustment of franchise contracts in 50 years, signaling a crisis in the sector [2][3][12] Industry Overview - Japan has experienced a prolonged economic downturn since the 1990s, leading to the emergence of innovative retail giants like 7-11, FamilyMart, and Lawson [1][2] - The convenience store model, particularly 7-11, has been pivotal in shaping the industry, focusing on consumer convenience and food offerings [2][4] Market Dynamics - The sales distribution in Japan's food retail sector for 2023 shows that convenience stores generated ¥12.732 trillion, a 4.4% increase year-on-year, but are facing stiff competition from drugstores and discount stores [11][12] - Drugstores have seen a remarkable 23.1% growth in food sales, indicating a shift in consumer preference towards lower-priced options [12] Consumer Behavior - The concept of "in-home dining" and "convenience food" has gained traction, with convenience stores becoming a significant part of the dining landscape due to their cost-effectiveness [9][10] - The price advantage of convenience stores is being challenged, leading to a new wave of competition in the market [10][12] Franchise System Challenges - The franchise model that has fueled 7-11's growth is now under scrutiny, as rigid operational rules are becoming burdensome for franchisees, particularly in light of Japan's aging population [13][14] - Franchisees face high profit-sharing rates with the headquarters, which has led to dissatisfaction and calls for reform [17] Financial Performance - 7-11's domestic business reported a revenue decline of 0.7% and an 11.0% drop in operating profit for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, highlighting challenges in maintaining consumer interest and innovation [20][21] Innovation and Future Outlook - The convenience store sector is at a crossroads, with 7-11's struggles reflecting a broader need for innovation to meet changing consumer expectations [21][22] - The success of Japanese convenience stores in the global market is attributed to their ability to innovate and adapt, but current trends suggest a potential stagnation in this area [20][21]