Manpuku Holdings Expands Its Culinary Portfolio with Food Forest Acquisition

Manpuku Holdings Strengthens Its Culinary Foundation through Acquisition of Food Forest

Manpuku Holdings Inc., a specialist in food-focused business succession, has recently acquired Food Forest Inc., located in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture. This strategic move, effective from October 31, 2025, marks the 14th addition to Manpuku Holdings’ expanding portfolio, which includes 13 domestic companies and one international entity. The acquisition is anticipated to significantly bolster the operational foundation of the Manpuku HD Group.

Background of the Acquisition

Food Forest operates two notable restaurants: "Wagohan Tororo-ya," a popular eatery specializing in tororo cuisine, and "Tonkatsu Hachibei," focusing on traditional Japanese pork cutlet. These establishments collectively operate eight outlets across three prefectures, including Shizuoka, Aichi, and Tokyo.

The "Wagohan Tororo-ya" establishment is renowned for its health-conscious Japanese meal offerings that prioritize natural ingredients. Featured items include yam, fresh fish, and seasonal vegetables, providing nutritious dining options that have garnered a loyal customer base, particularly among middle-aged women. This restaurant not only promotes health and wellness but also embraces the rich cultural heritage of Japanese cuisine, positioning itself as an iconic brand celebrated for its commitment to quality.

On the other hand, "Tonkatsu Hachibei" utilizes health-conscious pork raised at Hikochan Farm in Kagoshima Prefecture to offer authentic tonkatsu dishes. Its meals attract a diverse clientele, bridging age groups and preferences, making it a beloved staple within the community, appreciated during lunch and dinner hours alike.

This acquisition is positioned to create synergies with Manpuku HD's existing seafood, deli, and dining sectors. The plan aims to build a holistic value chain that connects both home-cooked meals and dining options, enhancing the company’s operational capabilities significantly.

Leadership Transition and Strategic Insights

In a noteworthy change, the new president of Food Forest will be an external member from the Tokai region, reinforcing the company’s commitment to local governance and community involvement. This leadership transition is not just pivotal for Food Forest, but also for Manpuku HD as it solidifies its relationship with the region through local management expertise.

Commitment to Health and Culinary Excellence

The comprehensive model implemented by Manpuku HD aims to streamline processes from procurement to manufacturing and delivery. This integrated system is expected to enhance brand value within the health-conscious market, paving the way for sustained business growth.

Both executives from the two companies expressed their commitment to upholding the essence of the Food Forest brand and ensuring the delivery of healthful and delightful culinary experiences.

Comments from Key Leaders

Hiroichi Kuji, President of Food Forest, commented on the honour of being the first to inherit a business from a female owner at Manpuku Holdings. He pledged to maintain the previous owner’s vision for food and continue delivering health and emotional connection to customers while aspiring for further growth alongside his team.

Tomoharu Kato, CEO of Manpuku HD, expressed gratitude for the relationship with Food Forest and optimism regarding the acquisition, anticipating the strengthening of its operational framework across dining, food service, and seafood processing. Furthermore, he highlighted the commitment to enhancing regional food culture and sustainable development in conjunction with the growth of their establishments in South Kanto.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Food Forest by Manpuku Holdings not only augments the company’s food service capacity but also enhances its operational synergy across various culinary enterprises. With a focus on health-conscious dining options, community engagement, and innovative management, both businesses are set to thrive in the evolving landscape of Japan's food industry.