Watami is considering an MBO, aiming to increase management flexibility and accelerate investment by taking its shares private. The proposal is reportedly scheduled to be submitted to the board on the 13th, against the backdrop of past business expansion, including the acquisition of Subway's Japanese operations.
Watami, a major izakaya operator, disclosed that it is considering an MBO, or management buyout. By taking its shares private, the company aims to increase management flexibility and make it easier to expand Subway's store network and pursue M&A overseas.
The company said it will submit the MBO for discussion at a board meeting to be held on the 13th. It said that specific procedures and terms, as well as the timing of the process, have not yet been determined.
Watami has expanded its business through the development of an izakaya chain. It entered the home-delivery business in 2008 and acquired Subway's Japanese operations in 2024, among other moves to expand into multiple business areas.