#Japan #Tokyo #FamilyMart #bear safety

FamilyMart Implements Comprehensive Bear Safety Guidelines

In light of the increasing bear sightings nationwide, FamilyMart, one of Japan's leading convenience store chains, has announced the implementation of robust safety guidelines aimed at ensuring the safety of both customers and employees. This proactive measure underscores the company's commitment to maintaining a secure shopping environment amid rising wildlife encounters.

Starting from November 10, 2025, FamilyMart will disseminate crucial information regarding bear encounters through its digital signage, "FamilyMartVision," installed at over 10,000 locations across Japan. Messages will not only be shown on the digital signage but will also be available on the top page of their app, "FamiPay," to alert and educate customers and staff about potential bear threats.

Key Guidelines for Safety

1. Preparation Before Incidents

• - Maintain Cleanliness: Ensure that areas around the store, including parking lots and trash bins, are devoid of any food remains or spills that may attract bears. Effectively managing waste, such as removing trash bins from the store front and storing unwanted items in back offices, can mitigate risks.
• - Confirm Emergency Contacts: Stores must identify and share contact information for local authorities and wildlife specialists within their premises.
• - Stay Informed: Staff should regularly check municipal announcements and disaster prevention applications for the latest bear sighting updates.
• - Distribute Bear Spray: Certain stores in bear-prone regions like Hokkaido and Tohoku will receive bear-repellent spray as a safety precaution.

2. Responding to Local Sightings

• - Halt Outdoor Activities: Should a bear sighting be reported nearby, any outdoor operations, such as parking lot management and cleaning, must cease immediately.
• - Guide Customers Indoors: Employees should efficiently guide customers outside back into the store or their vehicles for safety.
• - Secure Automatic Doors: Power should be cut to automatic doors and locked to prevent entry until the situation is safe.

3. Emergency Situations

• - Evacuate Customers and Staff: If a bear is sighted in proximity, those outside should quietly and swiftly be ushered into the store or vehicles without panic. Areas like staff offices or refrigerated beverage sections can serve as secure refuge.
• - Notify Authorities: The nearest police station should be contacted without delay to report the bear's presence.

4. Resuming Operations

Normal business activities can only recommence once authorities confirm that the bear has vacated the area and safety is restored. Communication from local law enforcement or through disaster warning systems will be the determining factor for reopening.

FamilyMart is devoted to ensuring the highest level of safety for its customers and staff by adhering to these guidelines. The implementation of such measures reflects a forward-thinking approach to addressing safety concerns in a rapidly changing environment, aiming to allow all patrons to enjoy a secure shopping experience.