Sukiya Temporarily Shuts Nearly 2,000 Stores Over Food Contamination Incidents

Japan's largest gyudon chain closes for a four-day hygiene overhaul after rat and insect contamination cases spark public concern.

Sukiya has closed almost all of its 2,000 Japanese outlets from March 31 to April 4, 2025, for enhanced pest control and hygiene measures.
The closure follows two confirmed contamination incidents: a rat found in miso soup in January and an insect discovered in food in March.
The company apologized publicly, refunded affected customers, and pledged stricter food safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
Despite the January rat incident going viral on social media, Sukiya only officially acknowledged it in late March, drawing criticism for its delayed response.
The incidents have led to reputational damage and financial repercussions, including a 7% drop in the stock value of parent company Zensho Holdings.