Core Insights - China has the highest number of convenience stores globally, totaling 321,000, but the per capita coverage is lower than that of South Korea and Japan, with one store serving an average of 4,441 people [1][2][3] - Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai have lower convenience store coverage compared to second and third-tier cities, with Beijing having one store for every 7,696 people, indicating a "convenience store desert" [1][9] - The density of convenience stores is higher in cities like Dongguan, which has the highest single-store population coverage at 2,048 people per store, while cities like Yichang have the lowest at 17,982 people per store [8][9] Market Dynamics - The leading convenience store brands in China are Meiyijia and Yijie, with 33,848 and 28,633 stores respectively, while international chains like Lawson and 7-Eleven have significantly fewer stores [7] - The operational costs in first-tier cities are high, making it challenging for convenience stores to thrive due to expensive rent and labor costs, which leads to a preference for opening in lower-cost second and third-tier cities [9] Consumer Behavior - Asian consumers have similar dietary preferences, making convenience store offerings like bento and rice balls popular, while American consumers prefer fast food options, which affects the types of products sold in convenience stores [4] - In China, convenience stores are not seen as primary shopping destinations but rather as supplementary options for busy lifestyles, which limits their market penetration compared to countries like Japan and South Korea [4][12] Future Outlook - The success of convenience stores in lower-tier cities raises the question of whether the next major brand could emerge from these less prominent locations, similar to how brands like Mixue Ice City have gained popularity [12][13] - The affordability and accessibility of convenience stores cater to everyday needs, suggesting that their growth potential remains strong in the context of evolving consumer habits [13]