Experts call on convenience stores to improve service

The number of convenience stores in China is approaching 100,000, generating more than 130 billion yuan ($18.8 billion) in sales in 2016.

To survive the fierce competition, operators of convenience stores should pay more attention to improving their product experience, increase self-owned brands, expand business scope, digitalize their service and optimize the supply chain, said experts.

Based on a survey of convenience stores in China's 36 cities, Vincent Lui, partner and managing director at Boston Consulting Group, said both the store numbers and operating revenue grew substantially in 2016, indicating the great market potential for this special retail business model, but the challenge is not small at all.