Pilot Details and Store Setup

Lawson plans to conduct the trial at its Takanawa Gateway City location in Tokyo’s Minato Ward. The test involves direct connection between customer digital wallets and the store’s existing checkout terminals. Customers will open the HashPort Wallet on their phones, display a barcode, and allow staff to scan it using standard POS equipment.

HashPort will handle the backend updates to customer balances based on verified transaction data from the POS. This setup allows Lawson to keep detailed records of purchases, including items bought and exact times, within its regular sales tracking systems. The company will assess system performance, transaction speed, and how well the process fits daily store operations before any decisions on wider use.

How Payments Will Work at Checkout

Shoppers load JPYC into a supported wallet ahead of time. At the register, they show the generated barcode. After scanning, the system processes the payment and confirms the sale. This keeps the entire flow inside Lawson’s current infrastructure rather than requiring separate devices or apps for staff.

The approach differs from earlier JPYC uses at smaller outlets because it ties directly into a major retailer’s sales system. Lawson will compare results against card and QR payments to measure processing times and any added steps for employees.

Background on JPYC Stablecoin

JPYC maintains a one-to-one link to the Japanese yen and holds reserves in yen deposits and government bonds. It launched in late 2025 under Japan’s regulated framework for stablecoins. Issuance and redemption occur through approved platforms, with growing circulation reported across multiple blockchains.

Previous adoptions include selected restaurants and service providers. The Lawson pilot represents a step toward mainstream retail use by testing seamless integration in high-traffic convenience stores.

Broader Developments in Japan’s Stablecoin Sector

Japan has built a dedicated regulatory structure for fiat-linked stablecoins since 2023. This framework sets clear rules for issuance and intermediary services. Major banks including MUFG, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho are preparing their own yen stablecoin initiatives for launch within the current fiscal period.

Payment firms are also moving forward. Netstars recently opened a merchant service that accepts multiple stablecoins, including JPYC, with low fees and settlement in yen. These efforts show steady progress toward practical digital payment options alongside traditional methods.

Operational Focus of the Pilot

The trial prioritizes practical measurements over immediate expansion. Lawson will check transaction reliability, time required per sale, and staff workload during peak periods. Customer feedback on ease of use will also factor into the review.

Success depends on maintaining fast checkouts that match or improve upon existing payment options. Any wider rollout would follow only after confirming the system works without disruption to store routines.

Context Within Japan’s Payment Evolution

Convenience stores handle large daily transaction volumes with tight schedules. Adding new payment types requires careful testing to avoid delays. Lawson’s project examines whether stablecoin flows can operate alongside cash, cards, and mobile QR options without added complexity.

The pilot occurs amid wider industry activity, including bank-led stablecoin projects and merchant services from payment providers. Results could indicate paths for other retailers considering regulated digital payments.