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The Challenges and Innovations of Ramen Restaurants in Japan and Abroad
The Decline of Ramen Shops in Japan
Despite being a staple for tourists visiting Japan, the recent years have seen a concerning rise in bankruptcies among ramen restaurants. In 2023, a record high of 45 ramen shops closed down due to escalating costs of ingredients, utilities, and labor, which small-scale operations found increasingly difficult to manage. Many of these establishments struggled due to their locations or increased competition, and with an inability to increase turnover rates while dealing with high ingredient costs, bankruptcy was often the only option left.
The Global Appeal of Japanese Ramen
Despite domestic challenges, the international popularity of Japanese ramen has surged, thanks in large part to the influence of Japanese manga and anime. The variety of flavors and customizable options available in ramen perfectly aligns with the Western preference for customization. This global recognition has opened new avenues for Japanese ramen beyond its borders, particularly through the efforts of major noodle machine manufacturers like Yamato Manufacturing.
