Japanese dollar stores (100-yen shops) are reportedly experiencing an unexpected boom in candy sales, leading to concerns about variety scarcity in their food aisles. Industry experts indicate that economical and nostalgic appeal of candies have led to this surge, putting pressure on stores to maintain an array of other groceries. Store owners are grappling with the challenge of allocating space to meet consumer demand while ensuring a diverse product offering.

In Japan, 100-yen shops play a crucial role in the community, providing an array of inexpensive household goods. The boom in candy sales reflects shifts in Japanese consumer buying habits as they home in on cost-effective and comforting products amidst turbulent times. Keeping a diverse product lineup that caters to all household needs is considered a social responsibility for these stores, causing the current candy craze to be seen as a problem.

In the US or EU, dollar stores or discount shops do face similar issues with product variety, though particular product surges like this are more often seasonal (holiday-themed items, back-to-school supplies, etc.). The idea of these stores having a societal responsibility to provide diverse commodities isn't as prevalent as in Japan.