Development Of Convenience Store System In Japan: Toward The Synchronization Of Production And Distribution

Abstract

This paper presents a finding from a case study of the convenience store system in Japan. Based upon two theories, strategic network theory and postponement-speculation theory, the evolutionary process of the supply chain management in the convenience store system is explained. Seven Eleven Japan, which is one of the large convenience store chains, has been developing its advanced system for several merchandise categories. This system is beyond the boundary of convenience store chains. The synchronization of production and distribution is persistently being aimed under the condition of the instantaneous consumption.