A Significant M&A Ceremony for Wakkanai's Beloved Sushi Restaurant
On November 4, 2025, a notable M&A ceremony was held at the Hanaichimonme Wakkanai main store, marking a pivotal moment in the preservation of local sushi culture. M&A Capital Partners, headquartered in Chuo, Tokyo, facilitated this transaction between TaiTasu, a limited company operating the popular revolving sushi restaurant, and Sapporo Kaisenmaru, a leading takeaway sushi firm based in Sapporo.
Hanaichimonme has been a cherished establishment in Wakkanai for over 30 years, attracting both locals and tourists. However, the restaurant faced challenges such as a persistent labor shortage and a lack of successors, which led the founder, President Masakiku Kaneko, to contemplate the possibility of closing down.
In light of these factors, Kaneko embraced the idea of transferring the business while it was still thriving. Seeking to uphold Wakkanai's rich sushi tradition, he collaborated with Sapporo Kaisenmaru, part of the Manpuku Holdings Group, which operates a business succession platform focused on the food industry. Their shared vision of preserving local culinary heritage ultimately led to the decision to undergo the M&A process.
Following the transfer, the restaurant will retain its name and staff, ensuring that it remains the only revolving sushi restaurant in Wakkanai. During an interview at the ceremony, President Kaneko expressed his relief and satisfaction stating,
"I am truly glad that we could preserve the restaurant."
Background of M&A Advisors
M&A Capital Partners played a crucial role throughout this transaction. The senior advisor, Yusuke Sawashima, a graduate of Kyoto University, joined M&A Capital Partners in 2021 after previously working for Keyence Corporation since 2017. His expertise was instrumental in navigating this complex deal.
The Ceremony Highlights
The M&A ceremony included a formal signing, a commemorative photo session with representatives from both companies, and coverage from various media outlets. Holding this event in the restaurant’s own premises underscored the significance of the occasion—not just for the businesses involved but also for the local community.
Company Profiles
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M&A Capital Partners Overview
- - Name: M&A Capital Partners, Inc. (Listed on Tokyo Prime - Stock Code: 6080)
- - Location: Tokyo Midtown, Yaesu Central Tower, 36th Floor, 2-2-1 Yaesu, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- - CEO: President Masaru Nakamura
- - Established: October 2005
- - Business: M&A brokerage
- - Contact Number: 03-6770-4300
- - Website: ma-cp.com
This M&A has been a crucial step in ensuring the continuity of an iconic part of Wakkanai's cultural and culinary landscape, reinforcing the connection between residents and their beloved sushi heritage.