Western brands coming to Japan will face stiff competition on two fronts: franchising is well-established in the country, and a clutch of Western brands have a strong foothold.
Among familiar names you will see often sandwiched between Japanese ramen and noodle outlets are big players like McDonald’s, KFC and Krispy Kreme donuts. Anytime Fitness and Curves are making inroads into the fitness market. Also making their marks are likes of Shake Shack, Carl’s Jr, Honolulu Coffee and Umami Burger.
That being said, franchising is a two-way street in Japan and local concepts are franchising in South East Asia and beyond.
In our latest Asia report, we aim to help you navigate the Japanese market with the help of Ichiro Fujita, President/CEO of I. Fujita International, Inc, who boasts a long experience of assisting incoming brands to franchise in Japan.