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Sarku Japan debuts new concept, franchise structure

The new concept features upscale decor and made-to-order menu items, and could give big-name players a run for their money.

October 1, 2009

Sarku Japan has launched a new Teriyaki and Sushi Express concept and restaurant franchising opportunity. Touting the new brand promise "Fresh Happens Here," Sarku chefs prepare made-to-order sushi and signature teriyaki recipes on a Teppanyaki grill.

The concept is reaching for a brand goal of 1,000 new units, all projected to open within the next ten years.

"Japanese food is now the mainstream, and Sarku Japan exemplifies one of today's hottest restaurant franchising trends," said Ben Kitay, president of Sarku Japan, in a news release. "Even in this tough economy, Sarku Japan has driven same-store sales growth of 5 percent, because we offer great value, healthy choices and a delicious alternative to fast food. We are really in the sweet spot for growth."

The first new Teriyaki and Sushi Express, a corporate store, debuted in the Boston suburb of Woburn, Mass., last year. The first franchise will open in September in Champaign, Ill., and four new locations are identified and under way in New York City, Washington, DC., and Los Angeles.

The first location opened outside of Boston just over 20 years ago. Sarku Japan currently has 200 locations in food courts within high-profile mall locations throughout 36 states. New franchise store-front locations are slated to open in strip malls and shopping centers with strong population density.