TOKYO, Nov 11 (News On Japan) –
Main izakaya chain operator Watami has acquired Subway Japan in a large-scale acquisition it views as a ‘second founding,’ aiming to determine a foothold within the fast-food market.
Watami Chairman and CEO Miki Watanabe (65): “I’m tackling this with the identical pleasure as my first founding—it’s actually enjoyable. I wish to spark a brand new increase.”
Talking with a smile, Watami’s CEO, 65-year-old Miki Watanabe, has ventured into quick meals for the primary time.
Watanabe (October 25): “I need the ‘Watami of Izakayas’ to be recognized as a substitute because the ‘Watami of Subway.'”
Watami has absolutely acquired Subway Japan, taking a significant step into the fast-food enterprise with the aim of constructing a series that may rival McDonald’s.
With a daring plan to broaden from the present 178 places to three,000 over the subsequent 20 years, Watami has set an bold goal.
On October seventh, Watanabe was seen in entrance of Kawasaki Station in Kanagawa Prefecture.
Throughout a 20-minute website inspection, he walked round 4 candidate areas, assessing foot visitors and the presence of close by eateries. After evaluating notes with knowledge, he gave the go-ahead for a number of new places.
Watanabe: “(Q: What are you searching for within the space?) The primary factor is the vibe—how full of life persons are. Some folks simply stroll by with out purchasing, and understanding their shopper habits is essential.”
Visionary CEO Prepares ‘Extremely-C’ Announcement
Even whereas touring, Watanabe retains a pocket book to file his concepts—a behavior for the reason that firm’s founding.
Watanabe: “(Notes say) it’s about properties, numbers, proper? Retailer rely for subsequent yr.”
His notes embody targets for brand new retailer openings: 25 places this fiscal yr, 50 subsequent yr, and 100 in three years.
He additionally displays inventory costs, change charges, and financial information on his pill.
Watanabe: “Somebody’s saying ‘reaching 3,000 shops like McDonald’s shall be robust.’ Nicely, we’re getting ready an ‘Extremely-C’ that may shock everybody.”
Subway Acquisition Marks ‘Second Founding’
Watanabe’s subsequent cease was a Subway location, the place he assessed the style from a buyer’s perspective.
He requested “additional” vegetable toppings on his order.
Watanabe: “(Q: You ordered additional greens?) I simply love greens. Completely love them.”
With Watami’s agricultural arm, “Watami Farm,” already producing greens at seven places throughout Japan, Watanabe expects synergy with the Subway enterprise.
After putting his order, Watanabe moved to the tasting stage, his earlier smile changed by a crucial eye.
Watanabe: “I simply wrote that for morning objects, you possibly can’t simply provide low cost drinks—you might want to create correct set menus.”
Watanabe is meticulous in his directives, viewing the Subway acquisition as a “second founding.”
Watanabe: “In comparison with pre-COVID, the izakaya (pub) enterprise hasn’t regained 20% to 25% of its prospects. Restoration is occurring in takeout, supply, and quick meals. (For Watami general) we’re aiming for a trillion-yen group in 24 years. I see Subway because the central enterprise supporting our 300-billion-yen home meals service goal.”
Supply: ANN
