Japan's department stores and electronics retailers have been busy catering to a rapidly growing number of foreign travelers. Convenience store operators have now joined the trend.
Some outlets of Seven-Eleven Japan began using new cash registers this month. Barcodes on products are scanned to automatically print out the document shoppers need for tax-free shopping. The process takes about five minutes, one-third the normal time. Seven-Eleven Japan plans to install the new cash registers at 1,000 outlets this month. It aims to triple that number by February.
Another major chain, Lawson, has five tax-free stores. When customers scan QR codes with their mobile phones, they can view a detailed explanation of the products in 11 languages. Lawson intends to put this system in more of its stores. Lawson outlets also have special sections for tourists, selling Japanese snacks, cosmetics and character goods.
Rival FamilyMart plans to also offer tax-free shopping at stores near tourist sites and hotels.
◆cater to （～の要求を）満たす
◆outlets 販売店、販売代理店
◆install 設置する
◆cosmetic 化粧品
