While the landscape of labour shortages and rising costs varies across the region, convenience retailers are experimenting with a range of new solutions to tackle their resource challenges. Robots employed to restock at FamilyMart FamilyMart has partnered with start-up Telexistence to introduce stock-checking robots to 300 stores in Japan. The Japan Times reports that each robot can repla...

Protein-alternatives is likely to expand in Asia with innovative products, new ways of distribution and production facilities. 1. Insects in vending machine by Sanpuku Holdings The vending machine which promotes the snacks as "highly nutritious meals of the future," is the first of its kind in western Japan's Shikoku region. There are nine types of insects available including fried crickets...

Co-working spaces, hybrid stores with additional services, and range evolution: three ways leading Asian convenience operators are adapting to meet changing shopper needs as markets emerge from Covid-19. 1. Co-working spaces 7-Eleven in Taiwan has introduced private working spaces above one of its stores in Taoyuan, reports Focus Taiwan. Rates of NTD 100 (USD 3.4) per hour mean the 14 rooms...