Key Facts
• On July 17, 2025, Workman announced the introduction of corporate franchising.
• Starting September 2025, multiple store operations by a single franchisee will be allowed.
• Previously, Workman avoided corporate franchising to support individual entrepreneurship.
• Reasons for the shift include labor shortages and high sales targets in large malls.
• Workman Colors will be rebranded and launched in February 2024.
• Corporate franchises will focus on malls with annual sales exceeding $1 billion.
• Franchisees must have experience managing multiple stores or mall operations.
• By mid-2025, Workman plans to open 24 new Workman Colors stores, totaling 102.
• Annual store openings will be adjusted: 20–25 local stores and 15–20 mall stores.
• Large mall stores aim for $27 million in annual sales, addressing urban demand gaps.
Summary
Workman, a Tokyo-based retailer, is transitioning from its ‘family business’ model to corporate franchising. This decision, effective September 2025, addresses labor shortages and the challenges of meeting high sales targets in large shopping malls. The rebranded Workman Colors will launch in February 2024, focusing on malls with annual sales exceeding $1 billion. Franchisees must have prior experience managing multiple stores or mall operations. By mid-2025, Workman plans to open 24 new Workman Colors stores, with a long-term goal of 40 annual openings. The strategy shifts focus from local stores to urban mall locations, aiming to meet growing demand.
