Abstract
As part of “studies on the livelihood of elders in remote islands” (2006–2017), this study reports
on the community stores in Okinawa Islands, emphasizing consumer livelihood (retail stores)
in remote islands. In total, 14 community stores were surveyed on three islands—Ishigaki, main
Okinawa, and Hateruma—from September 2014 to May 2017. Community stores serve as a point
of sales of essential goods in everyday life and as a place for communication among local residents.
In Ishigaki and main Okinawa Islands, community stores were closed or scaling down, because
of motorization and the impact of large-scale mass merchandizers. However, some remained a
hub for local residents. Community stores in Hateruma Island functioned sufficiently as nearby
convenience stores, and some had enough sales to pay dividends. The results of the surveys indicate that the presence of nearby convenience stores is crucial in addressing the needs of elders (vulnerable shoppers) living in aging and depopulating areas. Furthermore, a framework of self-help, mutual assistance, and public assistance is needed to aid the survival of these stores.
