Lawson and Matsumoto-­kiyoshi put off JV plan

Convenience store operator Lawson and drugstore chain Matsumoto­kiyoshi have put off plans to establish a joint venture until they can confirm the profitability of pilot stores.

Initially considered was a plan to combine Matsumoto­kiyoshi drugstores with Lawson’s high-end convenience stores for health-conscious consumers, but the idea was rejected.