Key Facts
• August 26, 2025: Lawson announced disaster-response onigiri production in stores.
• Target: Nationwide implementation by the end of the fiscal year 2025.
• 9,600 stores equipped with “Machikado Kitchens” for in-store cooking.
• Onigiri size: 180 grams, nearly double the regular size.
• Price: 200 yen (tax included), sold without seaweed, fillings, or salt.
• Prepared using in-store rice stock, wrapped in plastic.
• Contingency plan for disrupted supply chains due to road closures.
• Safety of store operations is a prerequisite for implementation.
• Training conducted in Tokyo to refine production processes and gather customer feedback.
Summary
Lawson has announced plans to enable in-store production and sale of onigiri during disasters across its 9,600 locations equipped with “Machikado Kitchens.” This initiative, set for nationwide rollout by the end of fiscal year 2025, aims to address supply chain disruptions caused by road closures. The onigiri, priced at 200 yen, will be larger than usual (180 grams) and made using in-store rice stock without seaweed, fillings, or salt. Training sessions in Tokyo have been conducted to optimize production processes and incorporate customer feedback. The plan hinges on the ability to safely operate stores during emergencies.
