FamilyMart and 7-Eleven: A Comparison
FamilyMart is a popular convenience store chain in Japan. It offers a convenient shopping experience with accessible locations and various services.
- Number of stores: Over 24,000
- Operating hours: 24/7
- Product variety: Over 10,000 items including food, beverages, snacks, daily necessities, and more.
- Services: ticket sales, bill payments, photocopying, parcel delivery, and more.
7-Eleven is the world’s largest convenience retailer with 12,000 locations. It is betting healthier options and technology-aided services will help redefine its future.
Supermarkets vs. Convenience Stores
The main difference between a supermarket and a convenience store is the types of food they sell. Supermarkets offer more variety and fresh foods. Convenience stores typically only sell pre-packaged items.
Presence in the Philippines and the U.S.
International convenience stores like 7-Eleven are on almost every street in the Philippines, especially in cities. 7-Eleven, run by Philippine Seven Corporation, is the largest chain with over 2,285 branches. Its first store opened in Quezon City in 1984.
The size of traditional convenience stores is usually 2,400–2,500 square feet. They offer an extensive range like grocery, dairy, snacks, health and beauty, prepared foods, and more. They usually provide 5-12 parking spots and are easily accessible. Many provide 24-hour service.
In 2018, over 153,000 convenience stores operated in the U.S., generating $616 billion in sales. Profit margins are typically thin, even for leading chains like 7-Eleven with healthy foods and technology-driven services. Convenience chains keep expanding globally to meet demand.