7-Eleven to launch unmanned stores in Tokyo

Customers will be able to access the locations and pay for their purchases through their smartphones.

7-Eleven Japan will introduce unmanned stores across its retail network, allowing customers to make their purchases only via their smartphones.

Through this initiative, the retailer is not only expanding its store formats but also taking measures against Japan’s current labor shortage. As TechTime reports, the largest c-store operator in the country is only one of the multiple companies that are being affected by this situation.

The chain has encountered several challenges to establish new stores located inside factories or inside tower condominiums. Through this new format, 7-Eleven aims to reach these previously inaccessible locations.

Customers will be able to enter the store and scan a QR code to complete their purchases via a dedicated app. Through the platform, users will be able to select products by scanning their barcode and choose their preferred payment option.

Stores will only need a single staff member to be managed, which will be responsible for stocking and inventory management. In addition, each of these locations will occupy approximately 50 m2 and offer a reduced product range of up to 1,200 items.

7-Eleven is already negotiating with close to 20 interested firms to install this new format in different locations, in line with the company’s nationwide expansion ambition.