On February 5th, the news took everyone by surprise: Nigo, a key figure in streetwear and founder of A Bathing Ape (BAPE) , became creative director of FamilyMart , one of Japan 's leading convenience store chains . This unexpected merger between two pillars of contemporary Japanese culture could well redefine the boundaries between fashion, retail, and everyday life.

A 100% Japanese partnership

" While Japan is attracting the world's attention, convenience stores are perhaps what best embodies our culture " - Nigo

In Japan, the konbini is much more than a convenience store: it's a cornerstone of daily life, an extension of home and office, open 24/7. With over 16,000 stores in Japan and 8,000 internationally, the FamilyMart chain is an institution, on par with ramen bars and the bustling pedestrian crossings of Shibuya . In a world where consumption patterns are evolving, FamilyMart has decided to modernize the konbini's image without losing its core identity.

The ambition is clear: to rethink aesthetics, customer experience and the products offered, drawing inspiration from Nigo 's unique perspective. 

Nigo at FamilyMart: what to expect

Nigo 's role at FamilyMart will not be limited to visual communication. According to official announcements, he will also be involved in:

• The creation of exclusive products reflecting the FamilyMart brand
• The design of certain stores or spaces
• the content displayed on FamilyMart Vision digital screens
• And of course, all of this while adopting a strategy centered around fashion, lifestyle, and contemporary Japanese culture.

The first activations are expected in spring 2026.

When the everyday becomes culture

With this project, Nigo isn't just another collaboration. He's transforming a public space into a visual address. FamilyMart becomes a new medium, a canvas for expression. It's a way of reminding us that streetwear also draws its strength from the ordinary, the everyday, the places we no longer notice.

What if other brands followed suit tomorrow? In Japan, as elsewhere, this initiative could well inspire others.

While we wait to see what Nigo has in store for us at konbini , check out our Bape selection here and in store.