Japanese convenience store operator FamilyMart Co. on Monday opened an unmanned, mobile shop at the venue for next year's 2025 World Exposition in Osaka, with hopes of eventually utilizing such stores in disaster-stricken areas and depopulated regions.
The shop on wheels, measuring approximately 14 square meters, will make its debut at the expo venue under construction on Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka Bay. The first of its kind in Japan, it is slated to carry around 280 products, including refrigerated and frozen goods, and will have two self-checkouts.
The store can be moved using a trailer and its location will vary according to how the ongoing construction of expo-related sites progresses, FamilyMart said in a press release.
It will be open between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The global event is scheduled to take place from April 13 through Oct. 13 next year.
Photo taken on May 13, 2024, shows an unmanned, mobile convenience store operated by FamilyMart Co. at a construction site at the venue for next year's 2025 World Exposition in Osaka. (Kyodo)
Related coverage:
12% of Japan convenience stores not open 24 hours amid labor shortage
Town begins work to block Mt. Fuji photo spot due to unruly tourists
KDDI to acquire 50% stake in Lawson, take it private with Mitsubishi
