Japanese convenience store chain, Lawson, has devised a comprehensive strategy to tackle the increasing bear-related issues at its locations. The move comes amid a surge in bear sightings and encounters in several parts of Japan. While the specifics of the plan are yet to be revealed, it is expected to include a range of measures including wildlife-friendly store designs, safety protocols for employees and customers, and collaboration with local officials and wildlife experts.

In recent years, Japan has been grappling with an escalation in bear incidents, with a growing number of bear sightings in residential areas and even cities. The issue is taken very seriously due to the associated safety and environmental implications. For businesses like Lawson that operate nationally, tackling this problem aligns with their responsibility to public safety and their role in local communities.

In the US or EU, similar proactive strategies are commonly associated with national parks and rural areas with known wildlife presence. However, more and more urban and residential organizations are also developing wildlife management plans due to an increase in urban wildlife encounters.