Key Facts
• July 2025: Daikichi System introduced the ‘Local Lease System’ for franchises.
• New system allows franchise openings in desired locations, unlike previous area restrictions.
• Franchisees can lease properties near their preferred areas, arranged by headquarters.
• Training program enables individuals without restaurant experience to become managers in 3 months.
• Daikichi System aims to increase its ‘Yakitori Daikichi’ outlets to 700 by 2030 (1.5x growth).
• ‘Yakitori Daikichi’ store count dropped from 1,126 in 2001 to 477 in August 2025.
• Average age of franchise owners rose from 30s in 2001 to nearly 60 in 2025.
• New system requires a higher deposit ($2,350 vs. $335) and a 5-year minimum operation.
• Lawson supports rural franchise openings by covering relocation costs for U-turn/I-turn workers.
• Convenience store market saturation contrasts with rural areas’ rising ‘shopping difficulties.’
Summary
Franchise chains and convenience stores in Japan are adapting to diverse lifestyle needs by allowing franchisees to open stores in their desired locations. Daikichi System’s ‘Local Lease System,’ launched in July 2025, enables individuals to manage ‘Yakitori Daikichi’ outlets near their homes, addressing challenges like childcare and elderly care. This initiative also aims to counteract the aging franchise owner demographic and declining store numbers. The system includes a higher deposit and a 5-year commitment but offers training for new managers. Similarly, Lawson supports rural franchise openings by covering relocation costs, addressing the growing issue of ‘shopping difficulties’ in depopulated areas. These efforts aim to attract younger talent and revitalize rural economies.
