FamilyMart rolls out new POS systems across Japan
The convenience store operator will introduce new registers at around 16,500 locations from September 2026, combining assisted and self-checkout modes to streamline transactions and reduce labor demands.
FamilyMart will begin deploying a new point-of-sale (POS) system across its approximately 16,500 stores in Japan from September 2026, aiming to improve customer convenience while reducing checkout-related workloads for store operators.
The new registers can switch between staffed and self-service modes depending on store conditions. During busy periods, employees can operate the checkout as usual, while off-peak hours and nighttime periods allow stores to activate a self-checkout mode, enabling customers to complete purchases independently.
FamilyMart plans to support roughly 40 cashless payment methods through the new payment terminals, including electronic money, credit cards and barcode-based mobile payments.
The retailer is also preparing additional accessibility features, including display options in hiragana and English, as well as voice guidance functions, to make the checkout experience easier for children, seniors and international visitors.
The rollout forms part of a broader efficiency strategy as Japan's convenience store sector faces labor shortages and rising wage costs. FamilyMart has also set a target of reducing total daily labor hours at stores by approximately 20% by fiscal 2030 compared with fiscal 2025 levels, supported by automation, AI-driven store operations and workforce management tools.
