Operations

Kura Sushi overall sales climb amid dip in comps

Photo: Kura Sushi

July 8, 2025

Kura Sushi USA Inc. reported a significant increase in total sales for its fiscal third quarter, ending May 31, 2025, reaching $74 million, up from $63.1 million in the same period last year. The technology-enabled Japanese restaurant concept also swung to a net income of $0.6 million, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $0.6 million, or $(0.05) per diluted share, in the fiscal third quarter of 2024.

Despite the overall sales growth, Kura Sushi experienced a 2.1% decrease in comparable restaurant sales for the quarter. This was attributed to a 2.9% decline in traffic, partially offset by a 0.8% increase in price and mix.

"The third quarter was a very busy one for us, between rolling out the new reservation system, investigating new market opportunities, and building out our IP pipeline and strategizing on how to get the most out of our Bikkurapon collaborations," Hajime Uba, president and CEO of Kura Sushi, said in a company press release. "I'm extremely pleased with the results on all three fronts, and very proud of the efforts by our team members to capture the full opportunity of the summer season and set ourselves up for a great fiscal 2026."

The company's operating loss narrowed to $0.2 million from $1.2 million in the prior year's third quarter. Restaurant-level operating profit stood at $13.5 million, representing 18.2% of sales. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $5.4 million from $4.5 million year-over-year.

The brand also continued its expansion, opening three new restaurants during the quarter in Scottsdale, Arizona; Lynnwood, Washington and McKinney, Texas. Since May 31, 2025, two additional locations have opened in The Woodlands, Texas, and Salt Lake City, Utah.

Looking ahead to the full fiscal year 2025, Kura Sushi updated its guidance, projecting total sales of approximately $281 million. The company expects to open 15 restaurants, maintaining an annual unit growth rate above 20%.

Kura Sushi Inc., the parent company in Japan, has over 650 restaurants internationally with nearly 80 in the U.S.