1996
900
$2,500
$500
$197,750
No
Bento Sushi is Canada's largest sushi company, renowned for its chef-prepared, fresh sushi and Japanese cuisine available in grocery stores, universities, airports, and quick-service retail outlets across North America.Founded in 1996 by Ken Valvur, Bento Sushi has expanded its presence significantly, offering a proven business model and a strong brand reputation.The franchise provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to enter the thriving quick-service sushi market with a brand that emphasizes quality, consistency, and value.
Proven Business Model: Bento Sushi has a track record of success, with hundreds of franchise units across North America.
Strong Brand Recognition: As Canada's largest sushi company, Bento Sushi enjoys high brand awareness and customer loyalty.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support to ensure operational success.
Diverse Location Options: Multiple franchise formats are available, including full-service locations, commissary-based operations, and satellite units, allowing flexibility to suit various investment levels and market conditions.
Commitment to Quality: Bento Sushi is dedicated to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and adhering to strict food safety standards, ensuring a premium product for customers.
Established: 1996 by Ken Valvur in Toronto, Canada.
Franchise Units: Over 900 units across North America.
Founders: Ken Valvur.
Company History: Bento Sushi began as a small takeout shop and quickly expanded into supermarkets and food courts in the late 1990s. The company has since grown to become a leader in the quick-service sushi industry.
Ownership: Bento Sushi is a subsidiary of Bento Inc., headquartered in Markham, Ontario.
Market Presence in the USA: Bento Sushi operates in multiple U.S. states, including California, New York, and Texas, with a focus on high-traffic locations such as grocery stores, universities, and airports.
Industry Category: Quick-service restaurants specializing in sushi and Japanese cuisine.
Bento Sushi offers a comprehensive support system for its franchisees, including:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Training Programs: Extensive training covering all aspects of operations, from sushi preparation to customer service and inventory management.
Operational Support: Ongoing assistance with day-to-day operations, including supply chain management and quality control.
Marketing Support: Access to national and local marketing materials and campaigns to drive customer awareness and sales.
Continuous Improvement: Regular updates and training to keep franchisees informed about new products, services, and industry trends.
The ideal Bento Sushi franchisee combines passion, business acumen, and commitment to operational excellence. Bento Sushi is looking for individuals who are not just investors, but active partners in growing the brand and maintaining its high-quality standards. Key characteristics include:
Passion for Food and Japanese Cuisine
A genuine interest in sushi and Japanese culinary culture is essential.
Franchisees should have enthusiasm for delivering fresh, high-quality meals and providing excellent customer experiences.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
Motivated, self-driven, and results-oriented.
Able to handle the challenges of running a business, from day-to-day operations to strategic growth.
Comfortable making decisions and taking initiative within the franchise system.
Operational & Management Skills
Ability to follow Bento Sushi’s operational systems and standards consistently.
Experience in managing staff, inventory, and customer service is a plus, though full operational training is provided.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for ensuring quality and efficiency.
Financial Readiness
Sufficient capital to cover the initial investment, working capital, and ongoing operational costs.
Ability to manage finances effectively to sustain the business during initial growth phases.
Customer-Centric Approach
Focused on creating a positive experience for every customer.
Committed to building customer loyalty and community presence.
Commitment to Brand & Location
Willingness to adhere strictly to Bento Sushi’s brand standards and operational guidelines.
Ideally suited for high-traffic locations such as grocery stores, universities, airports, and commercial areas.
Open to hands-on involvement in daily operations, at least during the initial growth phase.
Long-Term Vision
Interested in growing with the brand, potentially opening multiple units.
Focused on long-term success rather than short-term gains.
| Financial Item | Details (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $2,500 – $197,750 (depending on location and franchise type) |
| Minimum Investment Required | $2,500 (for small satellite/comissary-based units) |
| Franchise Fee | $500 – $25,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 7% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | Varies by location |
| Infrastructure/Setup Cost | Includes equipment, signage, leasehold improvements (varies by unit size) |
| Working Capital | $5,000 – $15,000 (for first 3 months) |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and operational efficiency |
| Break-Even Time | 12 – 24 months |
| Revenue Streams | Sushi sales, Japanese cuisine, catering, special events |
