The famous Japanese gyudon (Japanese beef bowl) chain 'Sukiya' is temporarily suspending operations at its national stores. This decision comes amid controversy after reports emerged of rat carcasses being found in some locations, followed by sightings of cockroaches.
According to the Japan Yomiuri Shimbun on the 31st, Sukiya announced it would suspend operations at most of its stores nationwide until the 4th of next month, except for some locations.
The suspension period is from 9 a.m. on the 31st to 9 a.m. on the 4th of next month. The locations excluded from the suspension are those located within shopping facilities, and these will also progressively cease operations through consultations. Sukiya explained that the purpose of the suspension is to entrust pest control to a specialized company.
As of March last year, Sukiya operates approximately 1,970 stores across Japan, making it a well-known 'gyudon franchise.' It holds the largest number of stores among the three major gyudon chains in Japan.
Recently, incidents of foreign substances being found in food have repeatedly occurred at Sukiya restaurants, leading to controversy. On the 28th, a consumer reported that a cockroach was found in a bowl served at a store south of Tokyo Akishima Station.
In January, there was a report of a rat carcass found in the miso soup at the Tottori Minami Yoshikata store. Sukiya faced controversy for not providing a statement regarding the substance contamination for about two months. Ultimately, Sukiya acknowledged the contamination and published an apology.
Sukiya expressed its regrets about the suspension, stating, 'We sincerely apologize for causing great inconvenience to customers and related parties.' It added, 'The affected store is voluntarily closing to investigate the cause.'