Japan's Sukiya Shuts Down Stores Following Pest Incidents

In an effort to maintain food safety and restore customer confidence, Sukiya has opted for a temporary shutdown of nearly all its 2,000 restaurants. This decision follows recent revelations of a rat discovered in a bowl of miso soup and an insect found in another location. The closures will take place from March 31 to April 4 as part of intensified cleaning and pest control measures. The company has expressed its sincere apologies for the distress and inconvenience caused to its patrons.

The incidents involving pests have led to a significant backlash on social media, with rumors about the rat incident circulating for weeks before Sukiya's confirmation. The restaurant chain stated that necessary precautions have been initiated to seal any cracks in the buildings to prevent pests from entering and that waste will undergo stricter disposal protocols. Due to these alarming events, Sukiya's share prices experienced initial drops, indicating investor concerns about the potential impact on the brand's reputation and customer trust.

Sukiya, owned by Zensho Holdings, has stated that upon reopening, strict pest control procedures will be enforced across all outlets to ensure diner safety and satisfaction.