#Japan #Tokyo #Matsuya Foods #Matsufuji #Ramen Business

Matsuya Foods Acquires Matsufuji Corporation

Matsuya Foods Holdings, a prominent player in Japan's food industry based in Musashino, Tokyo, has successfully completed the acquisition of Matsufuji Corporation, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary. This strategic move aims to bolster Matsuya's growth by expanding its noodle business, particularly in the profitable ramen sector.

Reasons for Acquisition

The external dining market that Matsuya operates in is showing signs of recovery thanks to increased consumer spending and a surge in inbound tourism. However, challenges such as high raw material prices, rising labor and energy costs, and currency fluctuations continue to create uncertainty. In light of this complex environment, Matsuya has identified “multi-brand promotion” and “enhancing profit structures” as the core pillars of its long-term strategy. By incorporating the ramen sector, Matsuya intends to diversify its business portfolio and pursue sustainable increases in corporate value.

On a recent date, Matsuya and Matsufuji signed a stock transfer agreement for the acquisition of all shares in Matsufuji, which operates a chain of ramen restaurants, primarily directing its efforts in the Kanto region. Matsufuji is recognized for its nine distinct brands and 120 restaurants as of November 2025. The company also boasts a central kitchen in Tokorozawa, ensuring high standards of quality and hygiene management, essential for restaurant operations in various locations.

Among Matsufuji’s flagship brands, particularly “Rokurinsha,” they have established a significant presence in major transit locations such as Tokyo Station and Haneda Airport, leading to robust brand recognition and customer loyalty. The brand's strength, along with its strong customer appeal, is predicted to drive Matsufuji’s growth trajectory. Additionally, Matsufuji has adept product development capabilities that allow for tailored offerings based on different customer segments, complemented by a growing online retail presence.

Synergies for Future Growth

Matsuya looks to integrate its accumulated expertise in new store openings, logistics networks, data utilization, and elite talent development with Matsufuji’s operational strengths. The goal is to create comprehensive synergies that enhance both product development and operational techniques across their brand portfolios. Through a committed entry into the ramen industry, Matsuya aims to broaden customer engagement and achieve further sustainable growth and profitability.

Moving forward, Matsuya will continue to advance strategic initiatives that leverage the unique characteristics of each brand, thereby increasing the overall corporate value of the group.

Matsufuji Corporation Overview

As part of this acquisition, Matsufuji Corporation, along with its fully-owned subsidiary Matsufuji Foods, is now a part of the Matsuya group. Here are some key details about Matsufuji:

1. Target Company: Matsufuji Corporation, including its 100% subsidiary Matsufuji Foods.
2. Headquarters: 7th Floor, Mitsumasa Building, 2-2-5 Uchikanda, Chiyoda, Tokyo.
3. CEO: Kazushige Takeda.
4. Business Scope: Management of group operations, including ramen shop operations, e-commerce, and licensing businesses.
5. Number of Stores: 120 stores (projected by end of November 2025).
6. Capital: 1 billion yen.
7. Establishment Date: January 2007.
8. Major Shareholder: Kazushige Takeda (56.33%); MR Investment Limited Partnership (40.00%).
9. Consolidated Net Assets: 1.518 billion yen (as of June 2025).
10. Consolidated Total Assets: 4.181 billion yen (as of June 2025).
11. Consolidated Revenue: 10.006 billion yen (as of June 2025).
12. Consolidated Operating Profit: 403 million yen (as of June 2025).
13. Consolidated Net Income: 163 million yen (as of June 2025).
14. Acquisition Price: 9.1 billion yen.
15. Website: Matsufuji Official Site

The Road Ahead for Matsuya Foods

Matsuya's foray into the ramen business represents a significant expansion opportunity, particularly illustrated by the opening of its new ramen brand “Matsutaro” in July. With the acquisition of Matsufuji, the total number of stores is anticipated to increase substantially, making ramen a third pillar alongside their beef bowl and pork cutlet offerings. The business's growth is bolstered further by Matsufuji’s established brand recognition and diverse restaurant formats that meet various customer preferences. Through strategic expansion into the noodle sector, Matsuya aims to not only solidify its market presence but also enhance overall operational efficiency.