Seven-Eleven Japan to unveil “onigiriˮ machines

September 19, 2017

TOKYO- Major convenience store chain operator Seven-Eleven Japan Co. said Tuesday that it will introduce vending machines that dispense "onigiri" rice balls, bread and other products.

The unit of Seven & i Holdings Co. plans to set up the machines mainly in offices and resting areas at factories that are not large enough to house a convenience store while steady demand is anticipated.

Seven-Eleven Japan aims to install 500 such vending machines throughout Japan by the end of February 2019.

The machines have four different temperature settings. Bread and pot noodles will be stored at room temperature, while onigiri, sandwiches and drinks will be chilled.

Nearby Seven-Eleven outlets will restock the machines, which will store up to 75 items, and manage sales. FamilyMart Co., a convenience store unit of FamilyMart Uny Holdings Co. , has installed similar vending machines ahead of other major convenience stores. Jiji Press