Japan's Saizeriya bets on downsized restaurants amid pandemic

The chain known for finding profits with low prices struggles with distancing

20200915 Saizeriya 2

Saizeriya, a restaurant operator known for low-cost Italian meals, will start opening new outlets that are 60% the size of its existing eateries.

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Saizeriya, the operator of a chain of affordable Italian eateries in Japan known for its ability to thrive in a deflation-hit economy, will open new restaurants with smaller footprints in Tokyo as the food services industry pivots to lower-cost and delivery options amid the pandemic.

By April, the chain operator will have compact outlets about 60% of the size of its current restaurants. The diners will be almost the same size as an average Japanese convenience store. The costs for refrigerators and other equipment as well as for rent and labor will be reduced.

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