Japan’s FamilyMart Launches 100-Yen Iced Coffee This Month

As temperatures rise across Japan, convenience store shoppers are hunting for an affordable, refreshing iced coffee. But with major retailers battling for market share, how cheap can a quality cup really go? One major chain is making a bold move to capture summer sales with a surprising price point.

Starting June 13, FamilyMart will offer a large iced coffee for just 100 yen — less than one US dollar — aiming to lead the summer convenience store coffee wars.

Why FamilyMart Is Selling Iced Coffee for 100 Yen

FamilyMart has been ramping up its in-store coffee offerings over the past year. According to Kyodo News, nearly all locations had installed self-serve coffee machines by February 2024. Customers pay at the counter, then grab a cup and serve themselves from the machine. By sourcing coffee beans in bulk and streamlining operations, the chain has significantly reduced per-cup costs, enabling the aggressive 100-yen pricing strategy.

How Convenience Stores Compete on Coffee Prices

Iced coffee has become a key battleground among Japanese convenience stores. With summer being the peak season for cold drinks, chains use low-priced coffee not just as a standalone product, but as a way to drive additional sales of bread, pastries, and other impulse items. The 100-yen price tag is especially attractive in a market where small price differences often determine consumer choices. A FamilyMart representative stated the goal is clear: “We hope to further boost sales through this promotion.”

The Role of Self-Serve Coffee Machines in Japan

Nearly every FamilyMart store now features a self-serve coffee station where customers manually pour their drinks. This model cuts labor costs and allows for high-volume, consistent output. The chain’s investment in coffee infrastructure, including bulk coffee bean purchases, has made it possible to serve premium-tasting iced coffee at an everyday low price. The 100-yen large iced coffee is expected to draw in more customers during the competitive summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does FamilyMart’s 100-yen iced coffee launch?

FamilyMart’s 100-yen large iced coffee goes on sale June 13, 2024. The promotion is part of the chain’s strategy to stand out in the competitive summer convenience store coffee market.

How big is the 100-yen iced coffee at FamilyMart?

The article refers to it as a “” or large cup. While exact volume isn’t specified, in Japanese convenience stores, this typically refers to a standard large size, commonly around 400–500ml.

Is the 100-yen iced coffee available at all FamilyMart stores?

Yes. According to the report, nearly all FamilyMart stores had installed coffee machines by February 2024, meaning the vast majority of locations are equipped to offer the 100-yen iced coffee starting June 13.

Why is FamilyMart selling iced coffee so cheap?

FamilyMart has lowered costs by buying coffee beans in bulk and using self-service coffee machines. This efficiency allows them to reduce the price per cup and offer a large iced coffee for just 100 yen, competing with other major convenience store chains.

Does the 100-yen coffee promotion include other drinks?

The report focuses solely on the 100-yen iced coffee. There is no mention of other drinks being included in this specific promotion, though low-cost coffee often boosts sales of accompanying food items like bread and pastries.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Iced Coffee

For making your own iced coffee at home, FrontStreet Coffee offers several top picks. Their Classic Blend is a medium-dark roast combining Brazilian nuttiness, Mandheling spice, and a touch of Robusta body—perfect for bold, refreshing iced espressos. The Strawberry Candy Espresso (Strawberry Candy EspressoGeisha) is a sweet, fruity blend from Panama and Costa Rica, ideal for bright, smooth iced pour-overs. For clean, high-acidity iced brews, try Ethiopia Huakui , a natural Ethiopian single origin with juicy berry and tropical notes. All beans are shipped fresh within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.