Recent M&A Agreement between Mostfun and Kigiya
In a strategic move for growth in the dining industry, Mostfun Co., Ltd., headquartered in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, has entered into a basic agreement with Kigiya Co., Ltd., famous for its operation of yakitori restaurants like 'Yakitori Kigiya.' The deal is set to culminate in a final contract by November 2026, with share transfer anticipated in January 2027.
Background and Goals of the Agreement
Mostfun is guided by the vision of achieving the highest employee satisfaction in Japan. With a focus on providing an excellent work-life balance, including up to 150 days off per year, it aims to foster a nurturing environment for personal growth within its employees. On the other hand, Kigiya established its first restaurant in Ikebukuro in December 2008, specializing in yakitori and has been dedicated to cultivating a brand rooted in the community for approximately 17 years. Both companies share a collective mission to genuinely transform the dining industry through enhanced employee satisfaction.
Mostfun has set an ambitious goal of expanding its restaurant footprint to 100 locations by 2030. This expansion is not merely about increasing the number of outlets but also ensuring that employee satisfaction continues to rise as the organization evolves. By merging Mostfun's expertise in human resource development and organization-building with Kigiya's longstanding brand and operational prowess, they anticipate further accelerating this vision.
Initiatives Promoted through the M&A
Post-acquisition, the two companies will focus on several key initiatives:
1.
Expansion of Regional Presence: Leveraging strengths from both companies, including Mostfun's operation in the Kanagawa-Tokyo area and Kigiya's roots in Ikebukuro and Takadanobaba, to enhance store presence in the metropolis.
2.
Strengthening Human Resources Development: Both firms will share methodologies for talent development and organizational structure, encouraging every employee to take charge of their career paths.
3.
Enhancing Brand and Business Development: Combining Kigiya's extensive experience in branding, product development, and store management with Mostfun's business development capabilities to innovate new formats and explore additional store openings.
4.
Creating Learning Opportunities in Food: Utilizing Kigiya's expertise in meat processing and relationships with producers to foster a deeper understanding of food among employees.
Company Overview as of September 3, 2026
Company Name: Kigiya Co., Ltd.
Location: 3 Chome-25-2 Nishi Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo
Key Executives: Hiroyuki Hayashida, Yuji Kojima
Business Venture: Focus on the dining industry and consultancy services related to restaurant management
Capital: 10 million yen
Future Steps Ahead of Share Transfer in November 2026
The two companies will engage in discussions and due diligence as they approach the final contract signing and share transfer processes. The projected timeline includes the final contract signing in November 2026 and the share transfer execution planned for January 2027, although these dates are subject to adjustment based on the outcomes of ongoing discussions and assessments.
Mostfun's Vision for the Future
Mostfun's philosophy is dedicated to achieving the highest employee satisfaction in Japan while primarily focusing on expanding its food service portfolio. They emphasize cultivating an environment where employees find joy in their growth. Mostfun is committed to being a supportive company that empowers workers to pursue their dreams. In April 2026, the internal systems department achieved independence, and the company is actively supporting those aspiring to run their restaurants. With the recent agreement with Kigiya, Mostfun is taking significant strides towards realizing its goal of unparalleled employee satisfaction in Japan's restaurant sector.
Quotes from Leadership
Yuji Kojima, CEO of Kigiya:
"This agreement is not about conforming to one another but rather bringing together our respective strengths to create a new future. Mostfun's commitment to employee satisfaction aligns well with our philosophy. We aim to create an environment that fosters personal growth through work. I see great potential in building a company and a space where this comes to life."
Takumi Osaki, CEO of Mostfun:
"Kigiya’s team has impressed me with their product capability and the empowerment of individual thought in operating their stores. I look forward to seeing how our combined strengths can lead to a transformed organization in the dining industry while still maintaining a high level of employee satisfaction."
Company Profiles
Kigiya Co., Ltd.
Founded in December 2008 in Ikebukuro, Kigiya has operated multiple dining establishments, emphasizing quality yakitori and seafood dining experiences. Its commitment to supporting staff independence through a unique structure fosters a culture where employees can pursue their dreams proactively.
Website:
Kigiya
Mostfun Co., Ltd.
Established with a mission to maintain a high level of employee satisfaction, Mostfun is not just about food service; they also delve into human resource consulting and system development. The company is founded on principles that advocate for employee growth and satisfaction.
Website:
Mostfun