Japan restaurant industry sales rise 6.8% in July

Japan's restaurant industry saw a recovery in July, with overall sales increasing by 6.8% compared to the previous year. According to the Japan Foodservice Association, stable weather conditions helped boost customer numbers, which rose by 3.2%, while the average spending per customer increased by 3.5%.

Major family restaurant chains reported strong performance. Saizeriya saw a 12.6% increase in existing-store sales, driven by a 10.8% rise in customer numbers. Skylark Holdings reported a 5.8% increase in existing-store sales, supported by seasonal summer menus and eel dishes. Joyfull and Royal Host also recorded growth of 7.0% and 6.8% in existing-store sales, respectively.

Sector-specific data shows fast food sales rose by 7.5%, while dinner restaurants saw a significant 9.5% increase. The recovery in foot traffic is attributed to more stable weather compared to the extreme heat of the previous year, though businesses continue to navigate consumer sensitivity toward pricing and value.