MAJOR convenience stores in Japan announced Tuesday that they will stop selling pornographic magazines in an effort to create a “comfortable environment” before the country plays host to international sporting events, such as the 2020 Olympics.

7-Eleven Japan Co., Lawson Inc. and FamilyMart Co., the top three convenience store chain operators, have all decided to end the sale of adult publications and manga comics by the end of August, citing concerns over harming the country’s image before the 2019 Rugby World Cup and next year’s Tokyo Olympics.

The companies said they hope the decision will create a more welcoming environment for women and children and will avoid giving a bad impression of the country as Japan prepares for a flood of foreign visitors for the sporting events.

“In the past, 7-Eleven was mostly used by male customers to buy beverages and fast food, and our product assortment was designed accordingly,” the chain told Reuters.

“However, as the role and usage of 7-Eleven stores has changed in recent years, 7-Eleven became an important shopping destination for families, children and elder people as well.”

(SD-Agencies)