Mouth-watering Ramen Ten franchise opportunity
Based out of Singapore, ‘Ramen Ten’ is the first Halal Japanese restaurant offering affordable modern Japanese Cuisine. In an interview, Roger Tan, Executive Director & Co-Founder of Ramen Ten and Shin Tokyo Group shares brand’s global expansion plans.
NamitaBhagat (NB): Tell us about the origin and concept of 'Ramen Ten'. What is the USP of the brand?
Roger Tan (RT): Ramen Ten means noodle shop in Japanese was conceptualised and originated from Singapore in year 2002. It adopts the concept of hip and vibrant décor in line with the fashionable Japanese downtown Harajuku. It is the first Halal Japanese restaurant in Singapore which offers affordable New Age Japanese Cuisine with a twist and offers more than 25 types of Ramen. Shin Tokyo Sushi which means New Tokyo Sushi in Japanese was created by Ramen Ten Group in 2008. It adopts the concept of Halal Japanese Sushi serve on conveyor belt with an open concept kitchen and chic and elegant ambiance.
NB: What are the motivating factors that inspired the company to opt the franchise model for the brand's expansion? What consumer segment does the brand cater to?
RT: Franchising is one of the best ways to expand globally therefore, we opted for franchise model. Ramen Ten and Shin Tokyo Sushi target working class, young professionals and middle class families.
NB: Could you share the operational strategy to enhance the brand's presence through franchising in the Middle East??
RT: Ramen Ten and Shin Tokyo Sushi will train our franchisees in Singapore after which we will send a team from Singapore to support opening of first outlet in the Country. We will further support on research and development on new products as well as advise on marketing and promotions.
NB: What are the target locations for developing the brand in the MENA region?
RT: We have confirmed a Master Franchisee for 15 Countries in Middle and North Africa including countries like Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria. We are looking for Master Franchisees in several other international markets as well.
NB: Could you share the investment outlay from the franchisees’ end to partner with the brand in MENA?
RT: The Master Franchisee in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) is looking at a 7-figure expansion plan.
NB: What are the qualities the brand seeks in its franchisees? What kind of training and support does the company provide them?
RT: We select our franchisees based on their background and history, such as how well established they are, what their key areas of success are and their financial capability as well as great passion to grow the business. Food and service training will be provided in Singapore. The marketing and research and development (R&D) support will be ongoing. A team from Singapore will be sent to help in setting up of the first outlet in the country.
NB: What other international markets you are looking at for launching the concept and could you share the time line?
RT: We are looking for Master Franchisee for India, China, Central Asia, Russia and the Europe within the next three to five years.
