TOKYO -- Budget restaurant chains in Japan that are struggling with sluggish sales are wondering: Where are all the "wandering salarymen"?
The Japanese government's work-style reforms, designed to give corporate employees more flexibility and reduce overtime, were widely expected to help affordable eateries. It seemed logical. Workers would pour out of offices earlier, and with extra free time on their hands, they would be more inclined to wander around and pop into standing bars, izakaya Japanese-style pubs and other casual establishments on the way home.
