Japanese supermarket and convenience store operator Lawson has seen gross operating revenue increase 5.8 per cent to ¥306.23bn (US$2.94bn) in the first half of 2016 compared to the same period in 2015.
Lawson’s operating profit fell 5 per cent to ¥39.9bn (US$380m) during the same period, from 1 March to 31 August 2016.
Lawson launched its ‘1,000 Day Action Plan’ in the first half of 2016 to focus on building its next-generation convenience stores, including adapting to the ageing population and prevalence of the nuclear family in Japan, the company stated.
During the first half of the 2016 financial year, Lawson opened 203 new stores, with its operating revenue across its 12,083 stores nationwide up 5.4 per cent to ¥213bn (US$2.1bn).
Lawson has focused on renovating existing stores, investing in advertising and promotions, and expanding its merchandising selection, including more refrigerators and more ready-made dishes, as well as expanding its home brand items.
The retailer has also invested in its 23 Lawson Farms, producing fresh fruit and vegetables to supply the group’s stores.
Lawson also operates stores in China, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and the US.
