Lawson unveils new transformation initiative for c-stores

The retailer will launch the "Real × Tech Convenience" alongside Mitsubishi and KDDI to promote the transformation of the brand through new technology and a new role to society.

Mitsubishi Corporation has launched an initiative to drive the transformation of the Lawson convenience store brand into the future.

The company is partnering with KDDI to expand the chain’s amenities through a concept called "Real × Tech Convenience." By leveraging business infrastructures, AI and DX technologies, the companies expect to transform the role of c-stores into "hubs of refreshment in every community."

This transformation not only includes retail operations but it also focuses on solving social issues in each community through cooperation with local governments.

The "Real × Tech Convenience" transformation aims to implement retail-tech initiatives via digital technology to solve operational issues. To achieve this, two stores will be opened near KDDI’s new headquarter to be operated as an experimental lab for different solutions.

Regarding Lawson’s social role, the three companies signed an agreement on disaster management to work together and build up a cooperative system. Stores will act as hubs for the sake of early recovery of utilities in the disaster-hit areas as well as ensuring victims feel safe and providing life support in case of a disaster.