#Japan #Osaka #Burger King #Lemon Association #Disability Employment

Burger King Opens Its Doors to Inclusion

On March 31, 2026, the Burger King® store will open its doors at Fuse Station, operated by the social welfare organization Lemon Association (Lemon Kai). This location marks the fifth installment in their expansion, creating a workspace for individuals with disabilities under the Continuous Support A-Type employment framework.

A Model for Work-Life Balance

Lemon Kai aims to create a society where everyone, regardless of their disabilities, experiences the happiness of "learning, working, and living." This franchise will enable individuals to enter into employment contracts with the assurance of earning at least the minimum wage in a structured environment. Given the global reach of Burger King, operational manuals are available, allowing for job segmentation tailored to individual capabilities. This model supports effective role delegation, promoting an atmosphere where anyone can shine as a professional.

From the history of existing franchises, the results speak volumes. With the ability to transfer between stores, several employees have used their time at Burger King as a stepping stone to gain employment at regular companies, with one or two people successfully landing jobs each year.

Employees are recognized for their efforts, encouraging them to strive for advancements and awards. Employees with over four years of tenure will be working from the opening day.

Economic Stability Through Fair Employment

Lemon Kai guarantees salaries above the minimum wage, thus allowing financial independence for all employees. For instance, one individual has secured a monthly income of around 95,000 yen through a work schedule of five hours a day over four days a week.

Moreover, the restaurant's extended hours from 10 AM to 9 PM provide a flexible working environment, catering to various lifestyles. The team is diverse, consisting not just of employees with disabilities but also those without, each contributing uniquely to the restaurant's operations.

Addressing Employment Challenges in Society

Despite the potential for meaningful work, many individuals with disabilities still face significant barriers. These include low wages, inflexible working conditions, a lack of understanding of their specific needs, and insufficient support structures. Lemon Kai is devoted to addressing these employment barriers through its partnership with Burger King.

By operating as a Continuous Support A-Type organization, they guarantee above-minimum wage work. Their methodology incorporates a world-standard operational system, ensuring everyone can thrive and use their unique strengths in a supportive setting.

Store Information:

• - Name: Burger King® Fuse Station Store
• - Location: 1-12-14 Ashiyado, Higashiosaka City, Osaka Prefecture (2-minute walk from Kintetsu Fuse Station)
• - Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• - Opening Date: March 31, 2026
• - Capacity for Supported Employment Users: 20 individuals aged 18 and over.
• - Website: Lemon Kai Burger King

About Lemon Association (Lemon Kai)

With a vision to realize social inclusion, Lemon Kai operates approximately 90 locations across 12 prefectures, providing services in education, welfare, and more. They offer diverse support programs including childcare, disability assistance, and a new community initiative called Social Inclusion Village. This project aims to bring knowledge-sharing, play, and collaboration, catering to all individuals to thrive together.

Company Name: Lemon Association (Lemon Kai)
CEO: Kotaro Maeda
Head Office: 240 Kokuwada, Kii-kawa City, Wakayama Prefecture
Established: February 2007
Employees: 1,995 (as of October 2025)
Website: Official Site