Taiwan Convenience Stores Push Freshly Brewed Coffee

Ever walked into a convenience store in Taiwan and found yourself eyeing a cup of fresh-brewed coffee next to the snacks? That’s no accident. Major players in Taiwan’s convenience retail sector are rapidly rolling out in-store coffee machines, aiming to turn every corner store into your go-to caffeine stop.

By the end of 2024, at least 1,000 new fresh coffee machines will have been installed across Taiwan’s top four convenience chains, with plans to push that number past 1,200—including 200-plus from OK Mart alone by late next year.

Convenience Stores Fuel the Fresh Coffee Boom

It started with Uni-President’s City Cafe, which launched its own fresh-brewed coffee offering two years ago—and quickly became a hit. Now, FamilyMart, Hi-Life (LAWSON), and OK Mart are joining the race. By teaming up with established coffee brands like President Coffee and Yi Coffee , these stores are installing commercial-grade espresso machines right inside their outlets.

According to the latest figures: FamilyMart, working with President Coffee, has already installed machines in over 500 locations since early this year. Hi-Life began its rollout in Q2 and has added coffee machines to 700+ stores. Uni-President, which had 500 City Cafe machines by the end of last year, reached 900 machines by September—and expects to surpass 1,000 by the end of 2023.

Now, OK Mart is jumping in. The company, Taiwan’s fourth-largest convenience chain, recently announced a strategic alliance with Yi Coffee. They plan to install Yi Coffee’s espresso machines in select OK Mart stores, starting with a pilot of ten locations. If successful, they aim to scale up to 50 stores early next year and reach 200+ by the end of 2024.

Coffee as a Store Traffic Driver

Fresh-brewed coffee isn’t just another impulse buy—it drives foot traffic, especially during peak hours. “The morning and afternoon tea periods see the highest coffee sales,” says Hi-Life. Their data shows that stores with coffee machines sell an average of 30+ cups per day, often paired with bread or sandwiches—helping lift the average transaction value.

Prices are another big draw. Most convenience stores offer a small black coffee for as low as NT$35 (approx. US$1.10), undercutting even the most basic offerings at global chains. Even as Starbucks raised its latte prices recently, convenience store coffee remains a budget-friendly alternative.

The trend is clearly seasonal: colder months see a spike in coffee sales. That’s why all four major chains raced to expand their coffee offerings ahead of peak winter demand. Combined, they’ve added over 1,000 new coffee-capable locations this year alone, with expectations for strong Q4 sales.

OK Mart Doubles Down on Unmanned Stores

On its 19th anniversary, OK Mart also shared updates on its unmanned retail push. The chain, which currently operates 820 stores after closing underperforming locations, is testing a new concept: QSHOP, a smart, cashier-less convenience format built around vending machines.

Launched late last year, QSHOP combines a self-serve kiosk with automated inventory systems. There are currently two QSHOP locations in operation, following a year-long trial period. OK Mart plans to expand the model via regional licensing and franchising, allowing third-party operators to manage individual QSHOP units under its brand.

“After adjusting our store portfolio, our operational performance has improved,” said General Manager Chang Hung-hao. “Our mid-year loyalty campaign helped boost daily revenue per store, and we’re optimistic about Q4.” Despite shrinking its physical footprint, OK Mart is focusing on efficiency—with unmanned stores as a key part of its long-term strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which convenience stores in Taiwan now offer fresh-brewed coffee?

Uni-President (City Cafe), FamilyMart (with President Coffee), Hi-Life (with President Coffee), and OK Mart (partnering with Yi Coffee) all offer fresh-brewed coffee. As of late 2023, over 1,000 machines are already in place, with plans to exceed 1,200 by the end of 2024.

How many coffee machines will OK Mart install?

OK Mart plans to install Yi Coffee’s coffee machines in 200+ locations by the end of 2024. The rollout begins with a test phase of 10 stores, scaling to 50 early next year.

Why are convenience stores adding coffee machines?

Fresh coffee boosts in-store traffic, especially during mornings and afternoons. It also increases average transaction value when paired with food items, and helps convenience stores compete with cafés on price and convenience.

What is QSHOP and how does it work?

QSHOP is OK Mart’s unmanned, vending-based convenience store format. It uses automated systems and large vending machines to sell products without cashiers. The chain plans to expand QSHOP through regional licensing deals.

How much does coffee cost at convenience stores in Taiwan?

Most stores sell a small black coffee for as little as NT$35 (about US$1.10), making it a low-cost alternative to branded coffee shops.

Are there seasonal trends in convenience store coffee sales?

Yes. Cold weather typically increases coffee sales, which is why most chains expanded capacity ahead of winter.

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