Panda Express heading for Japan
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US Chinese fast-food chain Panda Express, a staple of mall food courts in California, is about to launch in Japan.
It will be in the hands of I&P Runway Japan, a joint entity set up last year between Panda Express owner Panda Restaurant Group and Chikara no Moto, the restaurant management group behind the tonkotsu ramen chain Ippudo. Originally formed to help Ippudo gain a foothold in the US, the JV is now aiming to open the first Japanese Panda Express before the end of the year.
Other American fast-food chains such as KFC, Krispy Kreme and McDonald’s have had success in Japan, tweaking their menus to suit local tastes.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which two companies formed the joint venture responsible for launching Panda Express in Japan?
Which two companies formed the joint venture responsible for launching Panda Express in Japan?
The joint venture, I&P Runway Japan, was set up by Panda Restaurant Group, the owner of Panda Express, and Chikara no Moto, the restaurant management group behind the Ippudo ramen chain.
Q.What was the original purpose of the joint venture between Panda Restaurant Group and Chikara no Moto?
What was the original purpose of the joint venture between Panda Restaurant Group and Chikara no Moto?
The joint venture was originally formed last year to assist the Ippudo ramen chain, managed by Chikara no Moto, in establishing a presence and gaining a foothold in the US market.
Q.When is the first Panda Express restaurant expected to open in Japan?
When is the first Panda Express restaurant expected to open in Japan?
The joint venture, I&P Runway Japan, is aiming to open the first Panda Express location in Japan before the end of the current year. No specific date is mentioned beyond that timeframe.
Q.How have other American fast-food chains adapted their offerings for the Japanese market?
How have other American fast-food chains adapted their offerings for the Japanese market?
Other American fast-food chains that have found success in Japan, such as KFC and McDonald's, have done so by specifically adjusting or tweaking their menus to better suit local tastes and preferences.
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