#Japan #Tokyo #FamilyMart #bear repellent #Monster Wolf

FamilyMart Enhances Bear Prevention Strategies

As part of its commitment to safety and community engagement, FamilyMart, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, is reinforcing its bear prevention measures to protect customers and employees alike. With the company's 45th anniversary approaching in September 2026, FamilyMart is focusing on becoming "the most loved by the community" through the slogan "the greatest challenge."

The recent increase in bear sightings, especially around Hokkaido and the Tohoku region, has prompted FamilyMart to equip approximately 500 stores with bear repellent sprays since November 2025. To further enhance these efforts, an additional 300 stores will now receive bear repellent spray, bringing the total to around 800 stores. In tandem with this initiative, guidelines for staff have been developed, including the use of digital signage to alert customers of potential dangers associated with bear activities.

Detailed Safety Measures

To ensure the safety of customers and employees in areas with known bear activity, FamilyMart has implemented the following measures:

• - Emergency Response: If there are reports of a bear sighting nearby, staff are instructed to cut power to automatic doors and lock them to prevent any potential intrusion.
• - Evacuation Guidance: Should bystanders express concern for their safety, employees are trained to guide them inside until they are secure.
• - Environmental Cleaning: To deter bears, stores are enhancing cleanliness efforts, including the removal of garbage to eliminate smells that could attract wildlife.

Introduction of the "Monster Wolf"

In conjunction with increased bear repellent deployment, FamilyMart is also pioneering the use of a wildlife deterrence device called the "Monster Wolf" from June 17, 2026. This experimental device is designed to create a bear-free zone around its stores by emitting sounds that mimic those of wolves, thereby deterring bears from approaching.

Features of the "Monster Wolf"

The device boasts several innovative features:

• - Deterrent Sounds and Lights: It randomly plays over 50 different sounds while flashing red and blue LED lights to scare off potential threats.
• - Sensor Detection: Utilizing infrared sensors, the device is capable of detecting heat, thus activating when a bear approaches.
• - Ease of Installation and Durability: The Monster Wolf can be placed in locations without a power supply thanks to its solar panel compatibility and is built to withstand harsh weather conditions without compromising its effectiveness.

Experiment Details

Location: FamilyMart Hino’ya Kurohone Store, Address: 77-3 Shimodazawa, Kurohone Town, Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture.
Duration: The trial will start on June 17, 2026, and run until January 15, 2027, spanning approximately seven months.
Objective: This experiment aims to verify the effectiveness of the deterrent against bear sightings and enhance the psychological safety of both customers and employees.
Note: The sound volume will be lower than standard recommendations to minimize disturbance to the environment.

Company Commitment

FamilyMart strives to evolve in response to changing times and circumstances. As the company's 45th anniversary approaches, the initiative emphasizes its commitment to ensuring not just safety but also community satisfaction. By adopting the slogan "Creating your 'best' challenges," FamilyMart aims to introduce innovative, exciting, and environmentally friendly initiatives across various facets of its service. As they continue to operate, FamilyMart focuses on making positive impacts on the communities they serve.

For more information, visit the 45th Anniversary Special Site.