
Business Movers
Colonel Santa Claus | How KFC Conquered Japan | 1
Dec 28, 2023
Takeshi “Shin” Okawara, young businessman who became the manager of one of the first KFCs in Japan, shares the story of the struggles and triumphs of KFC in Japan. The podcast explores how KFC became a Christmas tradition in Japan and the challenges faced in opening KFC restaurants in the country. It also delves into the joint venture between KFC and Mitsubishi and the battle for independence of KFC Japan.
34:14
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Quick takeaways
- Marketing KFC as a Christmas tradition in Japan proved to be a successful strategy.
- Shin's commitment to upholding the original two-step process of making KFC chicken showcased his dedication to Colonel Sanders' vision.
Deep dives
Shin tries to bring American fried chicken to Japan
In 1970, Takeshi Shin Okawara opens a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in Nagoya, Japan, but struggles to attract customers.