Convenience store giant "Lawson"'s financial results for the year ending February were lower than the previous year due to a decrease in the number of customers visiting the store due to the spread of the new coronavirus infection, and the final profit decreased by 56%. Did.
Lawson announced that the group's financial results for the year to February were 66.6 billion yen, down 8.8% from the previous year.
The final profit was 8.6 billion yen, a decrease of 56.8%, resulting in a decrease in sales and profit.
Due to the spread of the new coronavirus infection, telecommuting and refraining from going out spread, the number of customers visiting the store decreased mainly in urban areas, and large-scale events were canceled or postponed one after another, resulting in sales of tickets at stores. Was depressed.
On the other hand, regarding the outlook for business results for the year ending February next year, the company expects a 55% increase in final profit, saying that it will increase sales by strengthening sales of frozen foods and pharmaceuticals, for which needs are increasing. is.
President Sadanobu Takemasu said at a press conference, "The situation was very difficult in the first half of last year, but in the second half I was able to respond to changes. I would like to see difficulties as opportunities and continue to respond to changes." It was.
Lawson to expand to 10,000 stores in China by the end of 2025
Lawson officially announced that it will triple the number of stores in China to 10,000 by the end of 2025, and President Sadanobu Takemasu will increase the number of stores in China to 10,000 in the future. He expressed his intention to proceed with the business with a view to exceeding it.
Lawson has more than 3,300 stores in China, mainly in big cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, but according to the announcement, it plans to triple the number to 10,000 stores by the end of 2025.
In China, the need to purchase food and daily necessities at convenience stores is increasing as a result of the new corona, so it is said that it will aggressively expand into local cities and embark on strengthening its overseas business.
President Sadanobu Takemasu said at a press conference, "China has a population of 1.3 billion and the market is large. 10,000 stores are a passing point." I showed my thoughts.
On the other hand, regarding the risk that the business will be affected by diplomatic relations, President Takemasu said, "I am thinking hard about how to grow the business soundly and sustainably. Various measures including local partner strategy I want to develop my business while thinking about it. "