Trial run launched at three stations after a hiatus of two decades

After nearly two decades of absence, convenience stores have begun to operate again inside select Beijing subway stations for a trial run, and more such stores are expected to be launched later to improve comprehensive service for straphangers.

On July 25, three convenience stores opened at subway stations in Beijing. They are a Deligogo store in Qingnian Lu Station on Line 6, a JD convenience store in Caishikou Station on Line 7 and a Lawson shop in Hepingli Beijie Station on Line 5.These three brands will go through a soft opening period of one year, and the authorities concerned will decide whether to open more such stores later.

Major cities such as Shanghai, Guangzhou in Guangdong province, Hangzhou in Zhejiang province and Chengdu in Sichuan province have operated a large number of convenience stores in subway stations for a long time and their management systems are mature. Beijing, the capital, considers more elements such as guaranteeing safety and managing passenger flow.

Back in 2002, 21 convenience stores operated by Beijing-based retailer Wumart Group were launched inside Beijing subway stations. But by 2004, they were all closed due to safety considerations.

Until August 2019, the Beijing Commerce Bureau issued a guideline allowing commercial facilities to be set up at transportation hubs such as subway stations.