FamilyMart Introduces Online Sign Language Interpreting

Nov 05, 2025 | News On Japan

TOKYO - FamilyMart has introduced an online sign language interpreting service ahead of the first-ever Deaflympics to be held in Japan.

The company announced that this is the first such system implemented in convenience stores nationwide, allowing customers with hearing impairments to communicate with store staff through a remote interpreter using their smartphones.

By scanning a QR code placed at the counter, deaf customers can connect online to an interpreter who assists them in communicating smoothly with the clerk for purchases such as coffee or event tickets, enabling complex interactions to proceed without difficulty.

FamilyMart plans to make the service available at stores around the Deaflympics venues until November 30th.

FamilyMart’s Sustainability Promotion Manager Yuko Maeda said: "Convenience stores exist everywhere across Japan’s 47 prefectures and are part of daily life for everyone. We want to continue exploring ways to create a more accessible environment for customers with disabilities."

Source: FNN

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