Lawson takes on 7-Eleven in Thailand with Japanese food focus

Local operator Saha Group tries to punch above its weight

Rice balls and other Japanese-style foods make up a big part of what's to eat at a Lawson flagship store in Bangkok's financial district. (Photo by Yui Sato)

YUI SATO

January 29, 2025 04:29 JST

BANGKOK -- Thai conglomerate Saha Group has some new weapons in its fight against convenience store leader 7-Eleven: fried chicken and rice balls.

Saha is selling more Japanese food and other products at convenience stores it operates in Thailand with Japan's Lawson, a move that could help fatten profit margins.