Tokyo -Japan’s three leading convenience store chains—Seven-Eleven Japan, FamilyMart, and Lawson—announced on May 29 that their applications to purchase government stockpiled rice through a discretionary contract were not accepted. The rejections were reportedly due to their failure to meet the eligibility requirement of handling at least 10,000 tons of rice annually.
Industry insiders expressed disappointment, noting that the eligibility requirement might have been met if prepared meal products, such as bento and frozen foods, were considered as part of their rice usage.
FamilyMart: Delayed but Determined
FamilyMart applied on May 27 to procure 3,000 tons of stockpiled rice. However, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) suspended the application process on the same day after requests from major retailers exceeded the 200,000-ton release limit.
The chain had planned to begin sales in early June at ¥432 per kilogram, but due to the delay, FamilyMart now aims to launch sales later in June. The company intends to reapply on May 30.
Seven-Eleven Japan: Needs Differ from Supermarkets
Seven-Eleven Japan also had its application rejected after being informed by the ministry that it did not meet the required conditions. A company representative stated, “Convenience stores have different needs than supermarkets,” and noted that the company is currently reviewing sales volumes and pricing for potential future offerings of stockpiled rice.
Lawson: Missed Timing, Plans to Reapply
Lawson submitted its application after the ministry’s temporary suspension, which meant it was not considered. The company plans to participate in the next round of applications, reopening on May 30 for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The three convenience store giants are expected to adjust and resubmit their applications, as government stockpiled rice becomes an increasingly important resource amid evolving consumer needs and supply chain demands.
Source – yahoo japan