In 2011, we recognized anew the important role of “close by
convenient stores.” In particular, we worked together with franchise
owners and suppliers to restore operations as rapidly as possible
following the March 11 earthquake. I believe that this experience has
further reinforced the solidarity of the 7-Eleven chain of stores.
There are ongoing changes in Japan’s social environment, such as
the aging of the population and the increase in working women. At
the same time, however, there is also a decline in the facilities available
for the provision of life support services, such as small and
medium-sized retail stores, bank branches, and government service
offices. As a result of this trend, I believe that convenience stores will
increasingly be called on to provide “close by convenient services.”
It is important to always be aware of “what is needed in the sales
area,” and to continue to work in accordance with a cycle of hypothesis
and verification.
Three years ago, we began to use the slogan “close by convenient”
for our stores. Over this period, we have made steady progress
in developing awareness among our employees, and the