Convenience stores in Japan urged to shorten hours, lower labor cost burden

Convenience store chains in Japan should consider shortening their business hours and help franchise owners cover rising labor costs, a government panel said Thursday.The recommendations come as some franchise owners are struggling to keep convenience stores open 24 hours a day despite plateauing demand from consumers and a severe shortage of workers.The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry had tasked the panel, consisting mostly of academics and business leaders, with drawing up a report on measures to place the industry on a more sustainable path.Warning that the current business model…READ FULL ARTICLE