Conveni (コンビニ) is the Japanese shorthand for convenience Store. When you feel like having a canned coffee and walk into one of them, you might be amazed by the various selection available on the racks, not knowing which one to buy.

At this moment of hesitation, a small marketing gimmick may make a big difference. On the rack, usually you can find a few beverages bundled with a small toy or souvenir.

These toys are meant to attract consumers’ attention and to stand out from the competitors. Moreover, they are usually priced no higher than the ones without souvenir, so you may consider it as a bargain.

Well, I admit I was attracted by this extra something even when I don’t really wanna buy a canned coffee or even when the toy itself is not so attractive. And this is how I succumbed to the temptation, alas.