Convenience store March sales fell sharply 9 years and 5 months April 20 17:06
Convenience store sales nationwide last month fell 5.8% compared to the same month last year, marking the sharpest drop in nine years and five months. The spread of the new coronavirus affected the decline in business districts and recreation areas.
According to the Japan Franchise Association, last month's sales at major convenience stores were more than ¥ 833.8 billion on an existing store basis, down 5.8% from the same month last year.
This was the first significant decline in nine years and five months since October 2010 when tobacco sales declined due to the increase in the tobacco tax.
Convenience store sales grew by more than 2% in February, with sales of delicatessen and frozen foods for those who spend time at home increasing due to the spread of the new coronavirus. The number of customers in offices and shops in holiday destinations has decreased significantly, leading to a dramatic decrease in sales.
Outlook after April Major companies at convenience stores say that the emergency situation is spreading nationwide, and the movements of people and corporate activities have become even weaker.