Billions of dollars are now being spent on eating outside the home, the market sources said, adding that in addition to convenience stores, hypermarket chains and restaurants are also eyeing the market.

However, based on their distribution channels, convenience store chains take the lion’s share, offering millions of boxed meals annually.

Among them, the 7-Eleven chain supplied 60 million boxed meals last year, while the Hi-Life chain, with over 1,000 affiliated stores, sells an average of 7 million annually, according to the sources.

The revenue stream from 7-Eleven’s fresh food amounts to NT$14 billion, representing a 10 percent share of the eating-out market. To extend its market share, 7-Eleven has recently launched new and diversified boxed meals.

A 7-Eleven spokesman added that the chain hopes to reach the goal of selling 70 million boxes in 2007 and expand to 100 million boxes annually in the near future.

The stores will continue to widen their appeal by developing diversified menus and offering fresh products, the spokesman said.

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