View source for CocoStore

{{Draft article|nomove=yes}}
{{Infobox company
| name = IFC Corporation<ref name="nikkei-commerce-yearbook-1984-451">''Distribution Company Yearbook 1984 Edition''. [[Nihon Keizai Shimbun]], October 31, 1983. pp451</ref><ref name="food-retaling-1990-6-132">"Seicomart's Akio Akao vs. Cocostore's Yuji Sawada: The Top Two Regional CVS Chains with a Focus on Liquor Sales, Their Leaders Discuss 'The Future of Liquor Retailers and CVS'". Shokuhin Shogyo, June 1990 ([[Shogyokai]]) (June 1990). pp132–146</ref><br />↓<br />Cocostore Corporation<ref name="food-retaling-1990-6-132"/><ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27">Masao Kawai. "Exploring the Secrets of Growing Companies: Cocostore Corporation". Nagoya Chamber of Commerce and Industry Monthly Bulletin ''Nagono'', April 1994 ([[Nagoya Chamber of Commerce and Industry]]) (April 1994). pp27</ref>
| logo = Cocostore logo.svg
| image = [[File:Morita Building 20140824.JPG|200px]]
| image_caption = The Morita Building, where the headquarters was located (August 2014)
| type = [[Kabushiki gaisha|Joint-stock company]]
| traded_as = Unlisted
| industry = 6100
| founded = June 1, [[1972]]<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27"/>
| key_people = Representative Director and President: Hiroshi Morita<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27"/>
| products = Convenience store chain operations
| revenue = ¥46,298 million<br />(non-consolidated, fiscal year ending May 2015)
| net_income = ▲¥129 million<br />(non-consolidated, fiscal year ending May 2015)
| name_en = Cocostore Corporation
| abbreviation = Cocostore, Coco!, Coco
| headquarters = 1-7-33 Sakae, [[Naka-ku, Nagoya|Naka-ku]], [[Nagoya]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]<ref name="nikkei-commerce-yearbook-1984-451"/><br />↓<br />1-7-34 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya<ref name="chunbu-zaikai-1996-3-92">"Morita Co., Ltd., Izmic Co., Ltd., and Cocostore Co., Ltd. Move into New Office Building". Chubu Zaikai, March 1996 ([[Chubu Zaikai-sha]]) (March 1996). pp92</ref><br />{{coord|35|10|1.9|N|136|53|42.9|E|region:JP-23|display=inline,title}}
| nationality = {{JPN}}
| capital = ¥40 million<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27"/>
| net_assets = ¥3,329 million<br />(non-consolidated, as of end of May 2015)
| total_assets = ¥19,301 million<br />(non-consolidated, as of end of May 2015)
| fiscal_year = End of May
| major_shareholders = Yamaizumi Shokai<ref name="nikkei-commerce-yearbook-1984-451"/><br />↓<br />Morita Enterprise (100%)<ref name="asahi-np-2015-9-9-8">Osamu Uchiyama (September 9, 2015). "FamilyMart Acquires Cocostore, Plans to Convert All Stores". [[Asahi Shimbun]] (Asahi Shimbun Co.). pp8</ref><br />↓<br />FamilyMart Co., Ltd. (100%)<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-10-2-7">"FamilyMart Makes Cocostore a Subsidiary, Absorbs It in December". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (October 2, 2015). pp7</ref>
| notes = Absorbed and merged into FamilyMart Co., Ltd. on [[December 1]], [[2015]].<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-2-6">"Conversion to FamilyMart Begins in the Chubu Region on the 9th: Cocostore". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (December 2, 2015). pp6</ref>
| postal_code = 460-0008
}}
[[File:Cocostore.JPG|thumb|200x200px|An example store (Cocostore Kasukabe Kamihiruta Store)(Converted to FamilyMart after closing)]]
[[File:CoCoStore-Fujiyamadai.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Cocostore Fujiyamadai Store — one of the first convenience stores in Japan. (September 2010)(Later changed to [[Tac-Mate]], then closed)]]
'''Cocostore''' was a [[convenience store]] chain that once existed in [[Japan]], as well as the corporation of the same name that operated it.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-30">Kimihiro Onotani, Takeshi Ishihara (September 9, 2015). "The 'Pioneer' of In-Store Cooking at Convenience Stores: Voices of Regret as the Store Name Disappears — The Warmth Was Always at Coco". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). pp30</ref>

Cocostore is known as the oldest convenience store chain in Japan, having opened its first store before [[Seven-Eleven]].<ref name="chunichi-np-2010-2-1">"'The Birthplace of Convenience Stores' Is Here: Opened in Fujiyamadai, Kasugai in 1971." [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (February 1, 2010)</ref> (However, there are several competing claims as to which company opened Japan's first convenience store.)

On [[October 1]], [[2015]], Cocostore Corporation was acquired by [[FamilyMart|FamilyMart Co., Ltd.]] and became a wholly owned subsidiary.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-10-2-7" /> On [[December 1]] of the same year, Cocostore was absorbed and merged into FamilyMart, and the legal entity ceased to exist.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-2-6" />

At the time of the legal entity's dissolution, Cocostore operated approximately 800 stores.<ref name="nissyoku-2016-4-13-4">Chiharu Itakura (April 13, 2016). "FamilyMart Transfers Cocostore Retail Shares to Mitsuiuroko". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). pp4</ref> Simultaneously with the merger, FamilyMart established the "Cocostore Business Integration Headquarters,"<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-4-8">"'Being No. 1 in the Industry Is Not a Dream': FamilyMart Launches Cocostore Integration Headquarters Ceremony". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (December 4, 2015). pp8</ref> and approximately 370 stores were converted to "[[FamilyMart]]."<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-10-29-9">"Farewell, Cocostore: Okinawa Is the Last — All Stores Close on the 31st". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (October 29, 2016). pp9</ref> On [[April 16]], [[2016]], all shares of "Cocostore Retail" were transferred to the Mitsuiuroko Group.<ref name="nissyoku-2016-4-13-4" /> Thirty unconverted stores were transferred to that company,<ref name="toshoken_2016-11-17">{{cite news |date=2016-11-17 |title=RIC Store (formerly Everyman, Cocostore) Reorganizes Remaining Stores and Partners with Poplar Group |url=https://toshoken.com/news/8211 |work=Toshoken News |publisher=Urban Commerce Research Institute}}</ref> and on [[October 31]] of the same year, the last two remaining stores in Okinawa Prefecture closed, and the brand name disappeared entirely.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-10-29-9" />

== History and Overview ==

=== From Izumi Food Chain to the Founding of Cocostore ===
The company traces its origins to [[1967]], when Yamaizumi Shoka established "Izumi Food Chain" as a retail support business.<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-26">Masao Kawai. "Exploring the Secrets of Growing Companies: Cocostore Corporation". Nagoya Chamber of Commerce and Industry Monthly Bulletin ''Nagono'', April 1994 ([[Nagoya Chamber of Commerce and Industry]]) (April 1994). pp26</ref>

On [[July 11]], [[1971]], the headquarters of "Izumi Food Chain," a voluntary chain organized by Yamaizumi Shokai, opened its first convenience store<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174">''Brewing Industry Yearbook, Showa 47 Edition''. [[Weekly Brewing Shimbun-sha]], March 31, 1973. pp174</ref> at 1854 Hakusan-cho Takamori, [[Kasugai]], [[Aichi Prefecture]],<ref name="food-yearbook-1978-215">''Food Industry Yearbook 1978 Edition (Supplement)''. [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun-sha]], June 30, 1978. pp215</ref> (9-2-14 Iwanari-dai, Kasugai<ref name="national-commerce-circular1-1985-443">''National Commercial Directory, 3rd Edition, 1985, Western Japan Vol. 1''. [[Tsusho Sangyo Chosakai]], March 1985. pp443</ref>) under the name '''Cocostore Fujiyamadai Store.'''

The name "Cocostore" was derived from the first letters of "Convenience" and "Comfort."<ref name="Convenience-store-management-1984-82">Tetsuro Hashimoto. ''Everything About Convenience Store Management, New Edition''. [[Keiei Joho Shuppan-sha]], June 20, 1984. pp82</ref><ref name="toyokeizai">{{Cite web |title=Toyo Keizai Online: The Meaning Behind FamilyMart's Acquisition of Cocostore |url=https://toyokeizai.net/articles/-/63621?page=2 |accessdate=November 20, 2016}}</ref>

The first store had a total floor area of approximately 330 m² and a sales floor of approximately 99 m².<ref name="franchise-21-1986-383">''21 Years of Franchise History''. Tokyo Keizai, April 1986. pp383</ref> In addition to a warehouse and office space of about 18 tsubo, it also featured a bread and cake oven facility of approximately 6 tsubo.<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /> The store held all required licenses, including those for liquor, salt, and tobacco,<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /> and carried a diverse product lineup including food items such as bread, confectionery, and general groceries,<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /> as well as magazines and stationery,<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /> general merchandise,<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /> [[Sony]] electronics (televisions, radios, etc.),<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /> photo development services (DPE), and approximately 1,500 product lines in total.<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /> Payments to suppliers and other accounting functions were handled by the headquarters, so store-level bookkeeping was kept to a minimum.<ref name="franchise-21-1986-383" /> Because no domestic convenience store at the time offered such a comprehensive range of facilities and merchandise, the store attracted widespread attention from the media.<ref name="convenience-store-materials-1975-88">Shogyokai Edupack. ''Comprehensive Collection of Convenience Store Materials''. [[West Japan CVS Council]], 1975. pp88</ref>

On [[December 11]] of the same year, the first franchise store, Rakuda Store, opened at the entrance to the Nishirakuta housing estate in [[Inuyama]], Aichi Prefecture.<ref name="grown-convenience-store-1972-113">Yukio Abe. ''Convenience Stores Growing in Japan''. [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun-sha]], May 20, 1972. pp113–117</ref>

=== Independence as IFC Corporation and Reaching 100 Stores ===
On [[June 1]], [[1972]],<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27" /> "IFC Corporation" was established and the convenience store division was spun off as an independent entity.<ref name="food-retaling-1990-6-132" /> The corporate name was derived from the initials of "Izumi Food Chain" — IFC.<ref name="Convenience-store-management-1984-82" />

Because the company had been founded with the goal of revitalizing liquor retailers who were being squeezed out by the rapid growth of [[supermarkets]], it initially limited franchise recruitment to stores that already held a liquor sales license.<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-2">Hiroshi Morita. "Cocostore's Management Strategy Aimed at Establishing a Unique Stance". ''Franchise Age'', May 1998 ([[Japan Franchise Chain Association]]) (May 1, 1998). pp2</ref> Due in part to the nature of voluntary chain operations, the company had projected that 200 member stores would convert to the Cocostore convenience store format by [[1975]], but the actual result was only 26 stores in total — 8 directly operated and 18 franchises.<ref name="shokosoken-1975-12-14">Yukichi Takebayashi. "The Current State and Future Direction of Voluntary Chains and Convenience Stores in Japan". ''Shoko Kinyu'', December 1975 ([[Small and Medium Enterprise Research Institute]]) (December 1975). pp14</ref>

In the meantime, the company expanded into the Kansai region in November [[1973]],<ref name="retail-future-strategy-1975-40">''Future Strategies for Retail Business 1''. [[Weekly Brewing Shimbun-sha]], March 1, 1975. pp40</ref> and reached the 100-store milestone in November [[1982]] with the opening of the Izuhoya Store in Sakai, Osaka.<ref name="food-yearbook-1983-43">''Food Industry Yearbook 1983 Edition''. [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun-sha]], June 20, 1983. pp43</ref>

=== Renaming to Cocostore, Systemization, and the Introduction of Area Franchisees ===
In June [[1985]], the company changed its name from "IFC Corporation" to "Cocostore Corporation," unifying the store brand and corporate name.<ref name="food-retaling-1990-6-132" /> That same year, it introduced the online ordering system "EOS."<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-4">Hiroshi Morita. "Cocostore's Management Strategy Aimed at Establishing a Unique Stance". ''Franchise Age'', May 1998 ([[Japan Franchise Chain Association]]) (May 1, 1998). pp4</ref>

In August [[1987]], the Kyushu headquarters was established.<ref name="nikkei-np-1987-07-31">{{Cite news |date=1987-07-31 |title=Cocostore to Enter Kyushu; First Store to Open in Fukuoka in October. |newspaper=Nihon Keizai Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref> In September of the same year, Cocostore became the first user to adopt the integrated financial and distribution VAN system "Billing, Collection, and Payment System," jointly developed by [[Mitsui Bank]], Mitsui Bank Software Services, and Fujitsu FIP.<ref name="bank-current-commentary-1987-10-46">"Mitsui Bank: Directly Linking Distribution and Financial VANs — Mitsui Bank Promotes Joint Software Development". ''Ginko Jihyo'', October 1987 ([[Ginko Jihyo-sha]]) (October 1, 1987). pp46–47</ref>

In June [[1988]], the company signed an area franchisee agreement with "Ikeda Liquor Sales" in Kagawa Prefecture,<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192">"Complete List of CVS Area FC Developments in Japan". ''Shokuhin Shogyo'', February 1990 ([[Shogyokai]]) (February 1990). pp192–193</ref> and in October of the same year, the first Nagasaki Prefecture store, Nagae Store, opened.<ref name="nagasaki-economic-1990-3-14">"The Current State of VAN and POS Adoption in the Prefecture: Focusing on the Nagasaki Prefectural Liquor Retailers' Support Strategy for Small Shops". ''Nagasaki Keizai'', March 1990 ([[Nagasaki Economic Research Institute]]) (March 21, 1990). pp14</ref>

In April [[1989]], area franchisee agreements were signed with "Tominari Liquor" in Yamaguchi Prefecture, "Oita Prefecture Liquor Wholesale" in Oita Prefecture, and "Nakai Honten" in Wakayama Prefecture,<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" /> and in October of the same year, an area franchisee agreement was signed with "Kubo" in Okayama Prefecture.<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" /> That same year, a POS system was introduced.<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-4" /> On February 5, [[1992]], the company relocated its headquarters along with Morita and Izmic.<ref name="chunbu-zaikai-1996-3-92" /> In April of that year, 500 stores were achieved,<ref name="nissyoku-1992-2-17-2">"Cocostore to Reach 500 Stores by End of April; Aims for 1,000 Stores in Three Years". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (February 17, 1992). pp2</ref> and in June, a partnership was formed with [[Million Card Service]] to introduce Sires credit card payment.<ref name="franchise-age-1993-2-8">"Events in the Franchise Business World in 1992". ''Franchise Age'', February 1993 ([[Japan Franchise Chain Association]]) (February 1, 1993). pp8</ref>

=== Expansion into Eastern Japan and New Store Formats ===
In May [[1993]], the company opened the "Nishikojiya Store" in Ota Ward and began operations in Tokyo,<ref name="nissyoku-1993-5-12-4">"Cocostore Opens First Directly Operated Antenna Shop in Tokyo: 'Nishikojiya Store'". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (May 12, 1993). pp4</ref> and in October of the same year, reached the 600-store milestone.<ref name="franchise-age-1996-5-20">"Convenience Store Special Feature: Market Scale and Trends in the Convenience Store Industry — Franchise Terms by Company". ''Franchise Age'', May 1996 ([[Japan Franchise Chain Association]]) (May 1, 1996). pp20</ref>

In April [[1994]], Cocostore Tohoku was established in preparation for entry into the Tohoku region.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=1994-04-26 |title=The "Sendai Front" of Convenience Stores Intensifies — Liquor-Focused Chains Enter from Chubu — Kamei Adds Gas Station-Attached Format. |newspaper=Nihon Keizai Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref> On July 3 of the same year, the Miura Store in Sendai became the first Cocostore location in the Tohoku region.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="nissyoku-1994-7-4-1">"Cocostore Tohoku Opens First Tohoku Store, 'Cocostore Miura Store,' in Sendai". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (July 4, 1994). pp1</ref> On December 1 of the same year, the Tokyo headquarters was established to accelerate store expansion in the greater Tokyo metropolitan area.<ref name="nissyoku-1994-12-7-1">"Cocostore Establishes Tokyo Headquarters for Full-Scale Metropolitan Expansion". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (December 7, 1994). pp1</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1995-11-02 |title=Cocostore Tokyo Headquarters Director Masaaki Jingu — Searching for Differentiation Strategies for Greater Tokyo Expansion (Spotlight) |newspaper=Nikkei Ryutsu Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref> In May [[1995]], 700 stores were reached.<ref name="franchise-age-1996-5-20" />

During this period, in June [[1994]], the company opened the first Coco Gourmet store (Fushimi Store) and began developing new store formats.<ref name="nissyoku-1994-9-30-4">"Cocostore to Franchise New-Type CVS 'Coco Gourmet' — Differentiating with Boxed Lunches and Side Dishes". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (September 30, 1994). pp4</ref><ref name="chunbu-zaikai-2000-9-34">"Company Challenge: Cocostore Corporation Partners with Kyushu Convenience Systems". ''Chubu Zaikai'', September 2000 ([[Chubu Zaikai-sha]]) (September 2000). pp34</ref> On July 27, [[1995]], the "Coco Gourmet Kanda Shirocho Store" opened as the first Tokyo location for the new format.<ref name="nissyoku-1995-8-2-4">"Cocostore Opens First Coco Gourmet Store in Tokyo's Kanda District; Plans FC Expansion Next Year". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (August 4, 1995). pp4</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1995-07-13 |title=Cocostore Adds Cooking Facilities to Convenience Stores — Freshly Made Boxed Lunches Drive Tokyo Expansion. |newspaper=Nihon Keizai Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref>

On April 26, [[1996]], the Minamisuna Fujii Store opened as the first franchise location in the Tokyo metropolitan area.<ref name="nissyoku-1996-5-1-4">"Cocostore Launches FC Operations in Tokyo; Coco Gourmet to Open in May". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (May 1, 1996). pp4</ref> On May 14, the Shizuoka headquarters was established to strengthen store expansion in the region.<ref name="nissyoku-1996-5-17-4">"Cocostore Opens Shizuoka Headquarters, Pushing Hard in the Tokai Region". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (May 17, 1996). pp4</ref>

Around the same time, on May 21, [[1996]], the company opened the first location of a new variety deli format, "Deli Ecco Club," at the Sasajima Store.<ref name="food-service-industry-1997-80">Munenori Hotta. "Special Feature: Dining Out Trends in 1996". ''Quarterly Restaurant Industry Research'', Vol. 14, No. 4 ([[Food Service Industry Research Center]]) (1997). pp80</ref> In April [[1997]], a new composite store format combining a pharmacy and convenience store was trialed with the opening of the "Cocostore Hajime Teikyo Daimae Store."<ref name="nissyoku-1997-5-30-4">"Pharmacy + CVS: 'Cocostore Hajime Teikyo Daimae Store' Aims to Develop New Field Ahead of Pharmaceutical Law Relaxation". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (May 30, 1997). pp4</ref>

In June [[1997]], a two-temperature integrated logistics system for chilled foods, prepared rice dishes, and bread was launched.<ref name="nissyoku-1997-4-9-4">"Cocostore to Launch Integrated Logistics for Chilled Items; Strengthening Original Fast Food". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (April 9, 1997). pp4</ref> In July [[1998]], three-times-daily delivery of daily items and prepared rice dishes, along with joint bread delivery, commenced.<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-4" /> On November 11 of the same year, a logistics partnership was formed with [[Ministop]] to further strengthen the supply chain.<ref name="chunbu-zaikai-1998-12-125">"News Box". ''Chubu Zaikai'', December 1998 ([[Chubu Zaikai-sha]]) (December 1998). pp125</ref>

In the meantime, bill payment collection services launched on April 20, [[1998]],<ref name="nissyoku-1998-4-20-4">"Cocostore Launches Bill Payment Collection Service". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (April 20, 1998). pp4</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1998-04-09 |title=Cocostore Also Begins Utility Bill Payment Agency Service (Information File) [Nagoya] |newspaper=Asahi Shimbun |agency=Asahi Shimbun Co.}}</ref> and in November the new ordering system "EON" was introduced.<ref name="franchise-age-1999-2-25">"Events in the Franchise Business World in 1998". ''Franchise Age'', February 1999 ([[Japan Franchise Chain Association]]) (February 1, 1999). pp25</ref>

In May [[1999]], Kotobukiya Convenience Systems began providing technical instruction on freshly baked bread to Cocostore,<ref name="chunbu-zaikai-2000-9-34" /> and that same month, the Coco Gourmet Meieki Sakuradori Store opened as the first bakery-equipped location.<ref name="名前なし-20250106133939">{{Cite news |date=2000-09-07 |title=Cocostore (Nagoya): Strength in In-Store Cooking of Side Dishes and Bread (Thriving Regionally) |newspaper=Nikkei Ryutsu Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref> On June 20, [[2000]], a business alliance was formed with Kyushu Convenience Systems (KCS).<ref name="nissyoku-2000-6-23-1">"Cocostore Partners with KCS and Others to Counter Major Chains". ''Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun'' (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (June 23, 2000). pp1</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2000-06-21 |title=Two Mid-Tier Convenience Store Companies Form Alliance. |newspaper=Nihon Keizai Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref>

=== Business Expansion Through Acquisitions ===
On April 23, [[2001]], Cocostore acquired 86.82% of the issued shares of Kasumi Convenience Networks, which operated [[Hot Spar (convenience store)|Hot Spar]] stores, and made it a subsidiary.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-4-27-3">"Cocostore Acquires 87% of Kasumi CVS Shares". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (April 27, 2001). pp3</ref> In June of the same year, the company acquired Kyushu Convenience Systems, Kotobukiya Convenience Systems Co., Ltd. (later [[Everyman (convenience store)|Everyman]], now Cocostore West), and I&I Retail (a franchisee of [[Nicomart (convenience store)|Nicomart]]), bringing them all under its umbrella.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-22-2">"Cocostore Fully Integrates Kotobukiya CVS; Group Total Reaches 2,200 Stores, Ranking 7th in CVS Industry". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (June 22, 2001). pp2</ref><ref name="WorldCompass">{{Cite web |author=Kenji Fujisawa |year=2001 |title=Retail: Destined to Evolve — The Supply Chain Systems Supporting the 'Winners' |url=http://mitsui.mgssi.com/compass/html/0107/toku_03.html |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20030701145433/http://mitsui.mgssi.com/compass/html/0107/toku_03.html |archivedate=2003-07-01 |accessdate=2020-04-01 |publisher=[[Mitsui & Co.]] Strategic Research Institute |month=7}}</ref> On July 1, Kasumi Convenience Networks was renamed Hot Spar Convenience Networks.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-4-25-2">"New President of Kasumi CVS: Fumihiro Sasaki; Name Change in July". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (April 25, 2001). pp2</ref>

During this period, on October 4, [[1999]], Cocostore began selling music on MiniDisc at select stores via a music distribution terminal called "Music Deli."<ref name="nissyoku-2000-10-16-3">"Cocostore Tests Music Sales Service at Three Stores". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (October 16, 2000). pp3</ref> On May 13, [[2001]], the company opened "Scoco (S-Coco) Meieki Store," a convenience store format aimed at female customers, continuing to experiment with new retail concepts.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-13-1">"Cocostore Opens 'Scoco' — A Convenience Store by Women, for Women". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (June 13, 2001). pp1</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2001-06-19 |title=A Women-Oriented Convenience Store Opens — Cocostore in Front of JR Nagoya Station Sees Double the Usual Customer Traffic. |newspaper=Nikkei MJ |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2001-05-14 |title=Here's a Women-Oriented Convenience Store — First in Japan, Opens in Front of JR Nagoya Station [Nagoya] |newspaper=Asahi Shimbun |agency=Asahi Shimbun Co.}}</ref>

On June 1, [[2006]], the company absorbed and merged the first-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks and Kyushu Convenience Systems. The second-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks Co., Ltd., Everyman Co., Ltd., and Ric Support Systems Co., Ltd. took over chain operating responsibilities.<ref name="nissyoku-2006-3-27-1">"Cocostore Merges Group Companies; Integrates Merchandise and Administrative Departments". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (March 27, 2006). pp1</ref>

In November [[2007]], the first store in the "Cocostore" brand operated by the second-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks, the Ryugasaki Kawaradai Store, opened.<ref name="nissyoku-2007-12-12-4">"Hot Spar Unifies CI Under 'Cocostore' Brand — New Strategy Following Withdrawal from Spar". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (December 12, 2007). pp4</ref> In March [[2008]], the conversion of all second-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks stores to the "Cocostore" brand was completed.<ref name="nissyoku-2008-10-8-4">"Cocostore East: Renovations Bring New Customers, Taspo Effect Also Noted". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (October 8, 2008). pp4</ref>

=== Partnership with Ministop and Integration of Tac-Mate ===
On August 24, [[2010]], Cocostore West and [[Ministop]] entered into a business partnership agreement covering the Kyushu region.<ref name="nikkei-np-2010-08-24">{{Cite news |date=2010-08-24 |title=Ministop and Cocostore to Mutually Supply Exclusive Products; Partnership in Kyushu. |newspaper=Nihon Keizai Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref> In September, Cocostore West and Ministop began mutual product supply operations in Kyushu.<ref name="nissyoku-2010-9-1-4">"Ministop Collaborates with Cocostore West in Kyushu — Development, Procurement, and Supply". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (September 1, 2010). pp4</ref> On December 16, all Cocostore East stores began accepting WAON electronic money payments.<ref name="nikkei-mj-2010-11-19">{{Cite news |date=2010-11-19 |title=Cocostore Also Introduces WAON — Eastern Japan and Okinawa Regions. |newspaper=Nikkei MJ |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref>

On August 18, [[2012]], the group entered into a capital and business alliance with Ministop,<ref name="nikkei-np-2012-08-17">{{Cite news |date=2012-08-17 |title=Capital Alliance with Cocostore — Ministop Takes 10% Stake in Subsidiary. |newspaper=Nihon Keizai Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref> and on April 2, [[2013]], Cocostore began handling AEON Group private brand Topvalu products.<ref name="nissyoku-2013-4-3-16">"Cocostore Group Begins Handling 'Topvalu' Products from April". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (April 3, 2013). pp16</ref><ref name="nikkei-np-2013-03-29">{{Cite news |date=2013-03-29 |title=Cocostore to Sell AEON PB Products. |newspaper=Nihon Keizai Shimbun |agency=Nihon Keizai Shimbun Co.}}</ref>

During this period, on June 1, [[2012]], the company also acquired the home delivery convenience store business Tac-Mate from [[Izmic]], as part of broader group restructuring efforts.<ref name="nissyoku-2012-3-26-11">Takuji Yokoyama (March 26, 2012). "Japan Food Service Association: Great East Japan Earthquake Response Presentation — Learn from the Lessons and Be Prepared". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). pp3</ref><ref name="名前なし_2-20250106133939">[http://www.chukei-news.co.jp/news/201203/09/articles_17273.php Cocostore Acquires Home Delivery Convenience Store Business. March 9, 2012. Chubu Keizai Shimbun]{{Dead link|date=September 2024}}</ref>

=== Declining Performance, Acquisition by FamilyMart, and Dissolution ===
However, the company's early founding philosophy of prioritizing the revitalization of liquor retailers led it to avoid aggressive expansion strategies and the dominant strategy of concentrating stores in specific areas to boost brand recognition and distribution efficiency. This proved to be a liability, as Cocostore was unable to compete against the major chains' large-scale offensives in both store openings and private-brand development, and the company gradually struggled on the financial front.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-3-14-9">Jumpei Kiriyama (March 14, 2015). "Cocostore Seeks to Avoid Decline — FamilyMart Considers Acquisition, Eying Concentrated Openings in Chubu". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). pp8</ref>

As a result, in the fiscal year ending May [[2015]], the company reported a net loss of approximately ¥100 million.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-8">Jumpei Kiriyama, Wataru Shiraishi (September 9, 2015). "Mid-Tier Convenience Stores Up for Grabs — FamilyMart Acquires Cocostore — A 'Challenger's Ticket' Against Seven-Eleven — Competing with Lawson". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). pp8</ref> Concluding that survival as an independent entity was no longer viable, the company held a bidding process to find a buyer.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-8" /> On August 15 of the same year, the capital and business alliance with Ministop was dissolved,<ref name="nissyoku-2015-4-8-16">"Ministop Dissolves Business Partnership with Cocostore". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.) (April 8, 2015). pp16</ref><ref>[http://www.cocostore.jp/press/image/20150320.pdf Notice Regarding Dissolution of Business Alliance]{{Dead link|date=September 2024}}</ref> and the company was sold to FamilyMart for approximately ¥13 billion.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-1">"FamilyMart Announces Cocostore Acquisition". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (September 9, 2015). pp1</ref>

On [[October 1]], [[2015]], FamilyMart Co., Ltd. acquired Cocostore and made it a wholly owned subsidiary.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-10-2-7" /> On [[December 1]] of the same year, Cocostore was absorbed and merged into FamilyMart, and the legal entity ceased to exist.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-2-6" />

At the time of dissolution, Cocostore operated approximately 800 stores.<ref name="nissyoku-2016-4-13-4" /> Simultaneously with the merger, FamilyMart established the "Cocostore Business Integration Headquarters,"<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-4-8" /> and approximately 370 stores were converted to FamilyMart locations.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-10-29-9" /> On [[April 16]], [[2016]], all shares of "Cocostore Retail" were transferred from FamilyMart to the Mitsuiuroko Group.<ref name="nissyoku-2016-4-13-4" /> Thirty unconverted stores were transferred to that company,<ref name="toshoken_2016-11-17" /> and on [[October 31]] of the same year, the last two remaining stores in Okinawa Prefecture closed, bringing the brand name to a complete end.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-10-29-9" /><ref name="sanspo161031">{{cite news |date=2016-10-31 |title=All Cocostore Locations Cease Operations — Two Months Earlier Than Planned — Conversion to FamilyMart Ahead |url=http://www.sanspo.com/geino/news/20161031/eco16103118080001-n1.html |accessdate=2016-10-31 |newspaper=Sankei Sports}}{{Dead link|date=September 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2016-10-31 |title=Thank You, Cocostore — The Last Store to Close Nationwide Was in Miyako Island |url=https://www.okinawatimes.co.jp/articles/-/69104 |newspaper=Okinawa Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite press release |title=Notice Regarding End of Operations at Cocostore and Everyman Stores |date=2016-10-31 |publisher=FamilyMart |url=https://www.family.co.jp/company/news_releases/2016/20161031_02.html}}</ref>

As for the stores transferred to Cocostore Retail (now Mitsuiuroko Grocery → Mitsuiuroko Provisions), they maintained their existing product lineup and services, and from August of the same year were gradually renamed — in the Honshu and Okinawa regions to "[[Tac-Mate]]," and in the Kyushu region to "[[RIC Store]]" — with only the store name changing.<ref name="tosyoken160905">{{Cite web |date=2016-09-05 |title=Cocostore to Rebrand as 'Tac-Mate' and 'RIC Store' by End of 2016 — Format Remains Unchanged |url=http://toshoken.com/news/7305 |accessdate=2016-09-09 |work=Toshoken News |publisher=Urban Commerce Research Institute}}</ref> Many of the Kyushu and Kanto stores subsequently entered into a co-management arrangement with Poplar Group's convenience store brand "Seikatsu Saika."<ref name="toshoken_2016-11-17" />

Additionally, on [[April 16]], [[2016]],<ref name="nissyoku-2016-4-13-4" /> the original first store — the Fujiyamadai Store — was transferred to the Mitsuiuroko Group.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-11-15-e11" /> It reopened on [[September 1]] of the same year as Tac-Mate Fujiyamadai Store,<ref name="excite-bit161117">[https://www.excite.co.jp/news/article/E1479357376055/ 'Japan's First Convenience Store' Closes — 45 Years of History Come to an End] (Excite Bit Coneta, November 17, 2016)</ref> but closed on [[November 17]] of that same year.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-11-15-e11" />

== History ==

* [[1971]]
** [[July 11]] — The headquarters of "Izumi Food Chain," a voluntary chain organized by Yamaizumi Shokai, opens the first Cocostore location — the Fujiyamadai Store — in [[Kasugai]], [[Aichi Prefecture]].<ref name="brewing-yearbook-1972-174" /><ref name="nikkei-commerce-yearbook-1984-451" />
** [[December 11]] — The first franchise location, Rakuda Store, opens in [[Inuyama]], Aichi Prefecture.<ref name="grown-convenience-store-1972-113" />
* [[1972]], [[June 1]]<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27" /> — "IFC Corporation" is established as an independent entity spun off from Izumi Food Chain.<ref name="food-retaling-1990-6-132" />
* [[1973]], November — Expansion into the Kansai region.<ref name="retail-future-strategy-1975-40" />
* [[1982]], November — The 100-store milestone is reached with the opening of the Izuhoya Store in Sakai, Osaka.<ref name="food-yearbook-1983-43" />
* [[1985]]
** June — The company is renamed from "IFC Corporation" to "Cocostore Corporation."<ref name="food-retaling-1990-6-132" />
** The online ordering system "EOS" is introduced.<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-4" />
* [[1987]]
** August — Kyushu headquarters established.<ref name="nikkei-np-1987-07-31" />
** September — Cocostore becomes the first adopter of the integrated financial and distribution VAN "Billing, Collection, and Payment System," developed jointly by [[Mitsui Bank]], Mitsui Bank Software Services, and Fujitsu FIP.<ref name="bank-current-commentary-1987-10-46" />
* [[1988]]
** June — Area franchisee agreement signed with "Ikeda Liquor Sales" in Kagawa Prefecture.<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" />
** October — The first store in Nagasaki Prefecture, Nagae Store, opens.<ref name="nagasaki-economic-1990-3-14" />
* [[1989]]
** April — Area franchisee agreements signed with "Tominari Liquor" (Yamaguchi), "Oita Prefecture Liquor Wholesale" (Oita), and "Nakai Honten" (Wakayama).<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" />
** October — Area franchisee agreement signed with "Kubo" in Okayama Prefecture.<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" />
** POS system introduced.<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-4" />
* [[1992]]
** February 5 — Headquarters relocated together with Morita and Izmic.<ref name="chunbu-zaikai-1996-3-92" />
** April — 500-store milestone reached.<ref name="nissyoku-1992-2-17-2" />
** June — Partnership formed with [[Million Card Service]]; Sires credit card payment introduced.<ref name="franchise-age-1993-2-8" />
* [[1993]]
** May — "Nishikojiya Store" opens in Ota Ward; Tokyo expansion begins.<ref name="nissyoku-1993-5-12-4" />
** October — 600-store milestone reached.<ref name="franchise-age-1996-5-20" />
* [[1994]]
** April — Cocostore Tohoku established in preparation for entry into the Tohoku region.<ref name=":0" />
** June — First Coco Gourmet store (Fushimi Store) opens.<ref name="nissyoku-1994-9-30-4" /><ref name="chunbu-zaikai-2000-9-34" />
** July 3 — Miura Store in Sendai opens as the first Tohoku location.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="nissyoku-1994-7-4-1" />
** December 1 — Tokyo headquarters established.<ref name="nissyoku-1994-12-7-1" />
* [[1995]]
** May — 700-store milestone reached.<ref name="franchise-age-1996-5-20" />
** July 27 — "Coco Gourmet Kanda Shirocho Store" opens as the first Coco Gourmet location in Tokyo.<ref name="nissyoku-1995-8-2-4" /> (Closed in spring [[1996]].<ref name="nissyoku-1996-5-17-5">"Cocostore Opens 'Coco Gourmet Gotokuji Store' as Metropolitan Area Model — Also Offers Pre-Ordered Boxed Lunches". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (May 17, 1996). pp5</ref>)
* [[1996]]
** April 26 — Minamisuna Fujii Store opens as the first franchise location in the Tokyo metropolitan area.<ref name="nissyoku-1996-5-1-4" />
** May 14 — Shizuoka headquarters established.<ref name="nissyoku-1996-5-17-4" />
** May 16 — Coco Gourmet Gotokuji Store opens.<ref name="nissyoku-1996-5-17-5" />
** May 21 — First "Deli Ecco Club" variety deli store opens at the Sasajima location.<ref name="food-service-industry-1997-80" />
** October 4 — Ikeda Liquor Sales spins off its Cocostore operations into a separate entity; Cocostore Kagawa Corporation established.<ref name="nissyoku-1996-10-14-5">"Cocostore Kagawa Established; Plans 30 Stores by Year-End to Strengthen Logistics and Development". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (October 14, 1996). pp5</ref>
* [[1997]]
** April — The first composite store combining a pharmacy and convenience store, "Cocostore Hajime Teikyo Daimae Store," opens.<ref name="nissyoku-1997-5-30-4" />
** June — Two-temperature integrated logistics system for chilled foods, prepared rice dishes, and bread launched.<ref name="nissyoku-1997-4-9-4" />
* [[1998]]
** April 20 — Bill payment collection services launched.<ref name="nissyoku-1998-4-20-4" />
** July — Three-times-daily delivery of daily items and prepared rice dishes, along with joint bread delivery, begins.<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-4" />
** November 11 — Logistics partnership formed with [[Ministop]].<ref name="chunbu-zaikai-1998-12-125" />
** November — New ordering system "EON" introduced.<ref name="franchise-age-1999-2-25" />
* [[1999]]
** May — Kotobukiya Convenience Systems begins providing technical instruction to Cocostore on freshly baked bread production.<ref name="chunbu-zaikai-2000-9-34" />
** May — Bakery-equipped Coco Gourmet Meieki Sakuradori Store opens.<ref name="名前なし-20250106133939" />
* [[2000]]
** June 20 — Business alliance formed with Kyushu Convenience Systems (KCS).<ref name="nissyoku-2000-6-23-1" />
** October 4 — In-store music MiniDisc sales begin via the "Music Deli" terminal at select stores.<ref name="nissyoku-2000-10-16-3" />
* [[2001]]
** April 23 — 86.82% of issued shares of Kasumi Convenience Networks (operator of [[Hot Spar (convenience store)|Hot Spar]]) acquired; Kasumi CVS becomes a subsidiary.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-4-27-3" />
** May 13 — Scoco (S-Coco) Meieki Store opens as a women-oriented CVS format.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-13-1" />
** June — Kyushu Convenience Systems, Kotobukiya Convenience Systems Co., Ltd. (later [[Everyman (convenience store)|Everyman]], now Cocostore West), and I&I Retail ([[Nicomart (convenience store)|Nicomart]] franchisee) acquired.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-22-2" /><ref name="WorldCompass" />
** July 1 — Kasumi Convenience Networks renamed Hot Spar Convenience Networks.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-4-25-2" />
* [[2002]]
** August 2 — Affiliated company Southern Cross opens an Italian bar.<ref name="nissyoku-2002-8-28-3">"Cocostore Opens Italian Bar in Enoshima". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (August 28, 2002). pp3</ref>
* [[2005]]
** April 14 — First Tac-Mate store in the Kanto region, "Tac-Mate Fujimi Ekimae Store," opens.<ref name="nissyoku-2005-4-22-4">"Tac-Mate Advances into Two Kanto Locations; Trials Location-Specific Development". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (April 22, 2005). pp4</ref>
* [[2006]]
** May 12 — Industry-academia collaboration agreement signed with Aichi Gakusen University.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2006-05-13 |title=Boxed Lunch 'Industry-Academia Collaboration' — Cocostore and Aichi Gakusen University to Develop Women-Friendly Products [Nagoya] |newspaper=Asahi Shimbun |agency=Asahi Shimbun Co.}}</ref>
** June 1 — First-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks and Kyushu Convenience Systems absorbed and merged into Cocostore; second-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks Co., Ltd., Everyman Co., Ltd., and Ric Support Systems Co., Ltd. inherit chain operating responsibilities.<ref name="nissyoku-2006-3-27-1" />
* [[2007]]
** November — The first "Cocostore"-branded store operated by second-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks, the Ryugasaki Kawaradai Store, opens.<ref name="nissyoku-2007-12-12-4" />
** December 19 — Ishigaki Hirade Store opens; Cocostore begins operations on Ishigaki Island.
* [[2008]]
** March — Conversion of all second-generation Hot Spar Convenience Networks stores to the "Cocostore" brand completed.<ref name="nissyoku-2008-10-8-4" />
** August 1 — Edy electronic money payment begins at all stores in Okinawa (84 stores).
* [[2010]]
** August 24 — Cocostore West and [[Ministop]] enter into a business partnership in the Kyushu region.<ref name="nikkei-np-2010-08-24" />
** September — Cocostore West and Ministop begin mutual product supply in Kyushu.<ref name="nissyoku-2010-9-1-4" />
** December 16 — WAON electronic money payment begins at all Cocostore East stores.<ref name="nikkei-mj-2010-11-19" />
* [[2012]]
** June 1 — Home delivery convenience store business Tac-Mate acquired from [[Izmic]].<ref name="nissyoku-2012-3-26-11" /><ref name="名前なし_2-20250106133939" />
** August 18 — Capital and business alliance formed with Ministop.<ref name="nikkei-np-2012-08-17" />
* [[2013]]
** April 2 — AEON Group private brand Topvalu products begin being handled at Cocostore locations (excluding Okinawa).<ref name="nissyoku-2013-4-3-16" /><ref name="nikkei-np-2013-03-29" />
* [[2015]]
** August 15 — Capital and business alliance with Ministop dissolved.<ref name="nissyoku-2015-4-8-16" /><ref>[http://www.cocostore.jp/press/image/20150320.pdf Notice Regarding Dissolution of Business Alliance]{{Dead link|date=September 2024}}</ref>
** September 1 — Subsidiaries Cocostore West, Cocostore East, and MICS Group convenience store operator MRC Corporation absorbed and merged into Cocostore.<ref>[http://www.cocostore.jp/new/chubu/corporate/kaisyagaiyou/kanren.html Cocostore Group Companies]{{Dead link|date=September 2024}}</ref>
** September 8 — Acquisition by major convenience store chain FamilyMart confirmed; plan announced to progressively convert most stores to "[[FamilyMart]]," excluding unprofitable and certain other locations.
** October 1 — FamilyMart Co., Ltd. acquires all shares of Cocostore from Morita Enterprise; Cocostore becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of FamilyMart.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-10-2-7" />
** December 1 — Cocostore absorbed and merged into [[FamilyMart|FamilyMart Co., Ltd.]]; the legal entity ceases to exist.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-2-6" /> The "Cocostore Business Integration Headquarters" is newly established within FamilyMart.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-4-8" />
** December 9 — "Nishiki 1-chome Store" reopens as the first store to convert from Cocostore to FamilyMart.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-12-9-9">"Cocostore → FamilyMart: First Rebranded Store Opens Today in Nagoya". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (December 9, 2015). pp9</ref>
* [[2016]]
** April 16 — All shares of Cocostore Retail transferred from FamilyMart to the Mitsuiuroko Group.<ref name="nissyoku-2016-4-13-4" />
** August 31 — Official Cocostore and Everyman website closes.<ref name="coco-site-close">[http://www.family.co.jp/cocostore/ Notice of Cocostore and Everyman Website Closure] (FamilyMart, ''accessed September 19, 2016''){{Dead link|date=September 2024}}</ref>
** From late August onward — Most remaining Cocostore stores not slated for FamilyMart conversion are scheduled to be progressively rebranded to "[[Tac-Mate]]" (Honshu and Okinawa) or "[[RIC Store]]" (Kyushu).<ref name="tosyoken160905" />
** September 1<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-9-2-9">Takeshi Ishihara (September 2, 2016). "Uny and FamilyMart Integration: Stronger Regional Focus — Shifting to Lifestyle-Proposal Supermarket". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). pp9</ref> — First-generation FamilyMart Co., Ltd. absorbs and merges with Uny Group Holdings to form Uny FamilyMart Holdings Co., Ltd.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-2-4-3">"'Circle K' Ends After 36 Years — Announcement of Unified 'FamilyMart' Brand". [[Chunichi Shimbun]] (Chunichi Shimbun Co.). (February 4, 2016). pp3</ref> Second-generation FamilyMart Co., Ltd.{{Refnest|Formerly Circle K Sunkus Co., Ltd. until the previous day.<ref group="PR" name="circlek-sunkus">[https://web.archive.org/web/20181120155716/http://www.family.co.jp/company/familymart/development02.html History (Circle K, Sunkus)] (FamilyMart, ''accessed September 24, 2024'')</ref> Absorbed and merged into Uny FamilyMart Holdings Co., Ltd. (FamilyMart Co., Ltd.) on September 1, [[2019]].<ref name="nissyoku-2019-4-12-1">Hitoshi Yamamoto (April 12, 2019). "Uny FamilyMart HD to Change Corporate Name to FamilyMart; Koji Takayanagi as Chairman, Takuya Sawada as President". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). pp1</ref>|group="Note"}} inherits the convenience store business.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-9-2-9" />
** October 31 — The last two Cocostore stores remaining under FamilyMart's umbrella, located in Okinawa Prefecture, close.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-10-29-9" /><ref name="sanspo161031" /> Thirty unconverted stores transferred to Mitsuiuroko-affiliated "Cocostore Retail."<ref name="toshoken_2016-11-17" />
** November 17 — The Tac-Mate Fujiyamadai Store — formerly the original Cocostore first store — closes permanently.<ref name="chunichi-np-2016-11-15-e11" /><ref name="excite-bit161117" />

== Stores ==
Cocostore initially focused its store expansion on the Chubu region,<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27" /> before pursuing a nationwide presence through area franchisees.<ref name="nagono-cci-1994-4-27" />

Because franchise recruitment had initially been limited to stores holding a liquor sales license,<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-2" /> as of [[1991]], over 90% of Cocostore locations sold liquor — far exceeding the rates of Seven-Eleven (30%), Daiei Convenience Systems (now [[Lawson]]) (13%), FamilyMart (10%), Sun Shop Yamazaki (now Yamazaki Daily Store) (32%), and Circle K Japan (17%).<ref name="canners-journal-1992-9-46">"Trends in the Food Industry". ''Canned Foods Journal'', September 1992 ([[Japan Canners Association]]) (September 1, 1992). pp46–47</ref>

As of the end of February [[2015]], Cocostore operated 57 stores in Aichi Prefecture, representing approximately 2% of all convenience stores in the prefecture.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-8" /> As of the end of August of the same year, the total across the four Tokai prefectures had declined to approximately 90 stores,<ref name="asahi-np-2015-9-9-8" /> reflecting the company's eroding market share in the Chubu region.<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-8" /> By contrast, Cocostore maintained higher market penetration in Okinawa Prefecture (approximately 106 stores, ~20% share as of end of February 2015),<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-8" /> Kumamoto Prefecture (approximately 90 stores, ~14% share),<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-8" /><ref name="asahi-np-2015-9-9-8" /> and Ibaraki Prefecture (approximately 90 stores, ~7% share).<ref name="chunichi-np-2015-9-9-8" /><ref name="asahi-np-2015-9-9-8" />

=== Store Brands ===

* '''Cocostore''' — The primary convenience store format.<ref name="nissyoku-1997-10-31-4">"Cocostore Focuses on Core Cocostore Format; Leverages In-Store Cooking Know-How from Coco Gourmet". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (October 31, 1997). pp4</ref>

* '''Coco Gourmet''' — A fast-food-enhanced convenience store format, modeled after Wawa in the United States, with in-store kitchen facilities used to prepare and sell boxed lunches and side dishes.<ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-5">Hiroshi Morita. "Cocostore's Management Strategy Aimed at Establishing a Unique Stance". ''Franchise Age'', May 1998 ([[Japan Franchise Chain Association]]) (May 1, 1998). pp5</ref><ref name="nissyoku-1995-6-12-1">"Mid-Tier CVS Develops New Formats and Organizations — Cocostore to Enter Greater Tokyo in July with Coco Gourmet". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (June 12, 1995). pp1</ref>

* '''Scoco (S-Coco)''' — A women-oriented convenience store format that sold small in-house prepared bento and freshly baked bakery items, while deliberately not stocking products typically targeted at male customers, such as certain cosmetics.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-13-1" />

* '''Coco de Cook''' — A convenience store format with in-store cooking, developed as a scaled-down version of the Coco Gourmet concept with a smaller kitchen footprint.<ref name="nissyoku-2002-6-12-10">"Chubu Distribution Special Feature: CVS Top Interview — Cocostore President and Representative Director Hiroshi Morita". [[Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun]] (Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun Co.). (June 12, 2002). pp10</ref><ref name="franchise-age-1998-5-5" />

* '''Deli Ecco Club''' — An in-store cooking variety delicatessen shop format.<ref name="food-service-industry-1997-80" />

== Area Franchisees ==

* '''Cocostore Kagawa Corporation''' — An area franchisee agreement was signed with "Ikeda Liquor Sales" in Kagawa Prefecture in June [[1988]].<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" /> On October 4, [[1996]], Ikeda Liquor Sales spun off its Cocostore operations into the newly established Cocostore Kagawa Corporation.<ref name="nissyoku-1996-10-14-5" />

* '''Cocostore Hiroshima''' — Operated by Okada Honten.<ref name="bunkyo-womens-univ-1997-12-103">Katsuko Morimiya. "The Role of Retail in an Aging Society — Focusing on Convenience Stores". ''Management Review'', March 1996 ([[Bunkyo Women's University]] Research Institute) (December 20, 1997). pp103</ref> As of the end of the fiscal year ending May [[1997]], this franchisee operated 58 stores.<ref name="bunkyo-womens-univ-1997-12-103" />

* '''Cocostore Keiji''' — Operated by Omi Liquor Sales.<ref name="bunkyo-womens-univ-1997-12-103" /> As of the end of the fiscal year ending May [[1997]], this franchisee operated 20 stores.<ref name="bunkyo-womens-univ-1997-12-103" />

* '''Nagasaki Regional Headquarters''' — Operated by Nagasaki Prefecture Liquor Sales.<ref name="nagasaki-economic-1990-3-14" />

* '''Oita Regional Headquarters''' — Area franchisee agreement signed with "Oita Prefecture Liquor Wholesale" in April [[1989]].<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" />

* '''Wakayama Regional Headquarters''' — Area franchisee agreement signed with "Nakai Honten" in April [[1989]].<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" />

* '''Yamaguchi Regional Headquarters''' — Area franchisee agreement signed with "Tominari Liquor" in April [[1989]].<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" />

* '''Okayama Regional Headquarters''' — Area franchisee agreement signed with "Kubo" in October [[1989]].<ref name="food-retaling-1990-2-192" />

== Group Companies ==

* '''Cocostore East'''

: On April 23, [[2001]], 86.82% of the issued shares of Kasumi Convenience Networks, which operated [[Hot Spar (convenience store)|Hot Spar]] stores, were acquired, making it a subsidiary.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-4-27-3" />

* '''Kyushu Convenience Systems'''

: Acquired and made a subsidiary in June [[2001]].<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-22-2" />

* '''Cocostore West'''

: Kotobukiya Convenience Systems Co., Ltd. was acquired and made a subsidiary in June [[2001]].<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-22-2" />
: {{Main|Everyman (convenience store)}}

* '''Cocostore Retail''' — When Kyushu Convenience Systems was acquired in June [[2001]], Ryoyu Chain Support (a subsidiary of KCS) became a grandchild company of Cocostore as a result.<ref name="nissyoku-2001-6-22-2" /> It operated stores under the "R Shop" and "RIC" brands.<ref name="ffg-report-1994-8-24">"Regional Economic Survey: Convenience Store Conditions in Fukuoka Prefecture". ''Fukuoka Bank Monthly Research Bulletin'', August 1994 ([[Fukuoka Bank]]) (August 1, 1994). pp4</ref> After Cocostore Corporation was absorbed and merged into FamilyMart Co., Ltd., all shares of Cocostore Retail were transferred to Mitsuiuroko Provisions — a consolidated subsidiary of [[Mitsuiuroko Group Holdings]] — effective April 15, [[2016]].<ref name="mitsu160218">{{Cite press release |title=Notice Regarding Comprehensive Alliance Agreement with FamilyMart Co., Ltd. and Others, and Share Transfer Agreement Regarding Cocostore Retail Co., Ltd. |date=2016-02-18 |publisher=Mitsuiuroko Group Holdings Co., Ltd. |url=http://v4.eir-parts.net/v4Contents/View.aspx?cat=tdnet&sid=1330997 |format=PDF |accessdate=2016-09-09}}{{Dead link|date=September 2024}}</ref>

: {{Main|Mitsuiuroko Provisions}}

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}

== References ==
{{reflist}}

=== Primary Sources (Press Releases, etc.) ===
{{reflist|group="PR"}}

== See Also ==
{{Commonscat|Cocostore}}

* [[Morita]]
* [[Shikishima Baking]] (Pasco)
* [[Sony]]
* [[FamilyMart]]
* [[Mitsuiuroko Provisions]]
* [[Hot Spar (convenience store)]]
* [[Everyman (convenience store)]]
* [[Seicomart]] — Shares notable parallels with Cocostore, particularly in its early years: both opened their first stores in 1971, and both were founded with the goal of revitalizing liquor retailers.

== External Links ==

* {{webarchive|title=Cocostore (National) |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151127053034/http://www.cocostore.jp/}}
* {{webarchive|title=Cocostore (Cocostore West Original Site) |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126083220/http://www.coco-kyushu.jp/}}
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