FamilyMart to allow shorter operating hours policy across Japan english.kyodonews.net

KYODO NEWS - 16 minutes ago - 18:01 | All, JapanConvenience store operator FamilyMart Co. said Thursday it will allow its franchise owners across Japan to shorten operating hours from March in a bid to address a severe labor shortage during late-night hours.
Under the new policy covering nearly 16,000 stores, franchise owners can shut down part of or throughout the window between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. if they notify the headquarters of their wish in advance.
Store owners who want to cut operating hours can also choose to do it every day or only on Sundays, the company said.
The move came after rival Seven-Eleven Japan Co. started cutting operating hours at eight stores this month as part of efforts to mitigate labor shortage.
About 7,000 outlets, nearly a half of the FamilyMart stores in Japan, said they are interested in shorter operating hours, a company survey conducted in June showed.