Ito Yokado discussing temporary store closures

Leading Japanese retailer Ito Yokado, part of Seven & i Holdings Co Ltd, is in discussions over whether it will close its operations in Beijing on Tuesday, a memorial day marking Japan's wartime occupation of parts of China.

Cheng Ning, director of public affairs of Beijing Huatang Ito Yokado Ltd, said it has received orders from its headquarters in Japan to ensure the safety of its customers, employees and property in China.

The local government in Beijing has also advised the company to enhance its security and food safety.

Cheng said he still waiting orders from the company's management on whether to continue operations on such a sensitive date.

In recent days, some of Ito Yokado stores in Beijing have closed two hours earlier to alleviate the impact of the ongoing activities targeting Japanese businesses that have erupted in many cities in China.

As a result, the businesses have been affected by the shorter hours.

There are eight Ito Yokada stores in Beijing and five in Chengdu, Sichuan province. Last year, the eight outlets in Beijing had revenues of 2.7 billion yuan ($425 million).