Sushi Mentai Franchise Cost 2025
Sushi Mentai has swiftly risen to prominence as a beloved and remarkably affordable Japanese cuisine restaurant chain across Malaysia. In a market that includes established players like Sushi King, Sushi Jiro, and Sushi Zanmai, Sushi Mentai distinguishes itself with its incredibly accessible price point coupled with a surprisingly wide array of choices, making quality Japanese food attainable for a broad audience. Since its inception in 2011 by Izumida Sdn Bhd, Sushi Mentai has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of Malaysians seeking delicious sushi, flavorful maki, satisfying donburi, and more, all without breaking the bank.
About Sushi Mentai
Since its establishment in 2011, Sushi Mentai has carved a significant niche in the Malaysian food scene by offering an extensive menu of quality Japanese cuisine at remarkably affordable prices. With the philosophy of bringing quality Japanese food at affordable prices to the masses, against a modern and casual backdrop, Sushi Mentai has become a go-to destination for Malaysians seeking fresh sushi, flavorful maki, satisfying donburi, and other authentic Japanese dishes without breaking the bank. Characterized by its modern yet casual dining atmosphere and the iconic conveyor belt sushi system where every plate is priced at an attractive RM1.80 and RM2.80 for a majority of its offerings, Sushi Mentai has garnered a loyal following across the nation.
The brand’s success lies not only in its pricing strategy but also in its commitment to quality ingredients and a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of palates. From classic salmon and tuna sushi to creative mentai-topped creations, grilled dishes (yakimono), and comforting rice bowls (donmono), Sushi Mentai provides a comprehensive Japanese culinary experience. This combination of affordability and variety has fueled its rapid expansion throughout Malaysia, establishing it as a recognizable and popular brand. Their extensive menu encompasses a full range of authentic Japanese dishes, like Temaki, Sashimi, Yakimono, and Donmono.
Why Choose a Sushi Mentai Franchise?
For entrepreneurs looking to tap into the thriving Malaysian food and beverage market, particularly the ever-popular Japanese cuisine segment, a Sushi Mentai franchise presents a compelling opportunity. While official franchise availability may vary, the inherent strengths of the Sushi Mentai brand offer several potential advantages for franchisees:
- Strong Brand Recognition: Sushi Mentai has established a significant brand presence and enjoys high recognition among Malaysian consumers due to its widespread presence and consistent value proposition.
- Proven Business Model: The brand operates on a successful model that emphasizes affordability and quality, attracting a broad customer base and ensuring consistent traffic.
- Extensive Menu and Popular Pricing Strategy: The diverse menu with its attractive RM1.80 and RM2.80 plate pricing is a key differentiator, drawing in customers seeking value without compromising on taste.
- Established Operational Systems: Franchisees would likely benefit from Sushi Mentai’s established operational procedures, supply chain management, and marketing strategies.
- Training and Support: As a franchise, Sushi Mentai would likely provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to franchisees in areas such as food preparation, customer service, and business management.
- Growth Potential: The continued popularity of Japanese cuisine in Malaysia and Sushi Mentai’s existing market penetration suggest significant growth potential for new franchise outlets. Sushi Mentai aimed to grow the number of outlets by three-fold by the end of 2025.
It is important to note that as of late 2024 and early 2025, the official Sushi Mentai website indicates that franchise applications are currently closed until further notice. However, for those interested in future opportunities, understanding the potential benefits remains crucial.
Requirement to Open a Sushi Mentai Franchise
While specific requirements may evolve if and when Sushi Mentai reopens its franchise program, potential franchisees can anticipate certain criteria based on industry standards and the brand’s established image. These may include:
- Financial Capacity: Franchisees will need sufficient capital to cover franchise fees, startup costs (including restaurant setup, equipment, and initial inventory), and working capital. The initial capital required was around RM449,500 according to past franchise information.
- Business Acumen: Prior experience in the food and beverage industry or general business management can be advantageous.
- Commitment to Brand Standards: Adherence to Sushi Mentai’s operational procedures, quality standards, and brand image will be paramount.
- Suitable Location: Identifying and securing a commercially viable location that meets Sushi Mentai’s criteria for visibility, accessibility, and target market demographics will be essential.
- Operational Capabilities: Franchisees will need to demonstrate the ability to manage the day-to-day operations of a restaurant effectively, including staffing, inventory, and customer service.
- Passion for the Brand: A genuine enthusiasm for the Sushi Mentai brand and a commitment to upholding its reputation will likely be a key consideration.
Prospective franchisees should monitor the official Sushi Mentai website and industry publications for any announcements regarding the reopening of their franchise program and specific application requirements.
How Much to Open a Sushi Mentai Franchise
Given that Sushi Mentai’s franchise program is currently on hold, precise figures for the “Sushi Mentai Franchise Cost 2025” are not readily available. However, based on general franchise costs in the Malaysian food and beverage sector, you can anticipate the following cost components:
- Franchise Fee: This is a one-time fee paid to the franchisor for the right to use the Sushi Mentai brand name, business model, and operational systems. Past information indicates a franchise fee of RM80,000.
- Startup Costs: These encompass the expenses involved in setting up the restaurant, including:
- Leasehold Improvements: Renovating and fitting out the premises to meet Sushi Mentai’s design specifications. This can be a significant cost, potentially ranging from RM200,000 to RM500,000 or more depending on the size and condition of the location.
- Equipment and Furniture: Purchasing kitchen equipment, conveyor belt system, sushi preparation stations, tables, chairs, and décor. This could amount to RM150,000 to RM300,000 or more.
- Initial Inventory: Stocking up on food ingredients, beverages, and supplies, estimated to be around RM30,000 to RM50,000.
- Signage and Marketing Materials: Costs for exterior and interior signage, menus, and initial promotional materials.
- Licenses and Permits: Obtaining the necessary business licenses and health permits.
- Working Capital: Funds needed to cover initial operating expenses such as rent, utilities, salaries, and marketing before the business becomes self-sustaining. This is typically estimated to be at least RM50,000 to RM100,000.
- Royalty Fees: Ongoing fees paid to the franchisor, usually a percentage of gross sales. Past information indicated a royalty fee of 3%.
- Marketing/Advertising Fund: Contributions to a central marketing fund managed by the franchisor. Past information indicated a Marketing/A&P Fund of 2%.
Based on past information, the estimated initial capital required to open a Sushi Mentai franchise was around RM449,500. However, these figures are from a previous offering and potential franchisees must obtain official financial details directly from Sushi Mentai if and when their franchise program reopens.
Estimated Simplified Profit/Margin Breakdown for a Sushi Mentai Franchise
| Revenue/Cost Category | Percentage of Sales | Estimated Monthly Value (RM – Example) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross Sales | 100% | RM 150,000 | Total revenue from all sales (sushi, a la carte, beverages). This is a hypothetical example. |
| Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) | 30% – 35% | RM 45,000 – RM 52,500 | Primarily food ingredients, beverages, and packaging. This percentage can fluctuate based on sourcing and menu mix. |
| Gross Profit | 65% – 70% | RM 97,500 – RM 105,000 | Gross Sales minus COGS. This is the profit before operating expenses. |
| Operating Expenses: | |||
| Rent & Utilities | 10% – 15% | RM 15,000 – RM 22,500 | Varies significantly by location. |
| Salaries & Wages | 15% – 20% | RM 22,500 – RM 30,000 | Staffing levels and wage rates. |
| Franchise Royalty (3%) | 3% | RM 4,500 | Based on the provided reference. |
| Marketing/A&P Fund (2%) | 2% | RM 3,000 | Based on the provided reference. |
| Other Operating Expenses | 5% – 10% | RM 7,500 – RM 15,000 | Includes supplies, maintenance, insurance, POS system costs, etc. |
| Total Operating Expenses | 35% – 50% | RM 52,500 – RM 75,000 | Sum of all operating expenses. |
| Net Operating Profit (EBITDA) | 15% – 35% | RM 22,500 – RM 52,500 | Gross Profit minus Total Operating Expenses. This is the profit before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. |
| Other Potential Costs: | |||
| Loan Payments (if applicable) | Varies | Varies | If the franchise was financed. |
| Depreciation & Amortization | Varies | Varies | On equipment and leasehold improvements. |
| Taxes | Varies | Varies | Corporate tax rates in Malaysia. |
| Net Profit (Before Owner’s Draw) | (After Other Costs) | (Lower than EBITDA) | The final profit figure before the owner takes a salary or draw. |
Disclaimer: This Sushi Mentai franchise profit/margin table (May 1, 2025) is a simplified estimate for reference only. Franchise-Info and authors are not responsible for financial decisions or losses. Conduct thorough due diligence and consult franchise and financial advisors. For inquiries, contact hello@franchise-info.my.
Sushi Mentai Menu Price
A cornerstone of Sushi Mentai’s success is its affordable pricing strategy. The majority of sushi plates on the conveyor belt are priced at an incredibly accessible RM1.80 and RM2.80 per plate. This allows customers to enjoy a diverse selection of sushi without incurring a high cost, making it a popular choice for individuals and families alike.
Beyond the conveyor belt sushi, Sushi Mentai also offers an extensive à la carte menu featuring a wider variety of Japanese dishes, including Temaki, Sashimi, Yakimono, and Donmono, all maintaining a generally affordable price point. This dual-pricing strategy caters to a broad customer base.
Sushi Mentai Owner
Sushi Mentai is owned and managed by Izumida Sdn Bhd. This company has been responsible for the brand’s establishment in 2011 and its subsequent expansion across Malaysia. Understanding the ownership provides insight into the brand’s strategic direction and values.
Sushi Mentai Contact
As the official Sushi Mentai website (https://sushi-mentai.com/) currently states that franchise applications are closed until further notice, direct contact regarding franchise opportunities may be limited at this time. However, interested parties can still reach out through the provided channels:
- Email: The general inquiry email provided on their website is info@sushi-mentai.com.
- Telephone: While not explicitly for franchise inquiries, the provided telephone number is [Insert Telephone Number from Reference].
- Website: Monitor the official website for any updates on franchise opportunities.
It is advisable to monitor the official Sushi Mentai channels for any news regarding the reopening of franchise applications and to prepare your business plan and financial information should the opportunity arise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Does Sushi Mentai offer franchises in Malaysia for 2025? As of May 2025, Sushi Mentai’s official website indicates that franchise applications are closed until further notice.
- What was the estimated initial capital to open a Sushi Mentai franchise? Past information indicated an initial capital of around RM449,500.
- What is Sushi Mentai’s pricing strategy? The majority of sushi plates are priced at RM1.80 and RM2.80, with an à la carte menu offering a wider range of dishes at affordable prices.
- Who owns Sushi Mentai? Sushi Mentai is owned by Izumida Sdn Bhd.
- How can I contact Sushi Mentai regarding franchise opportunities? Monitor their official website (https://sushi-mentai.com/) and use the general inquiry email (info@sushi-mentai.com) or telephone ([Insert Telephone Number from Reference]) to express interest.
Is Sushi Mentai Halal Certified?
According to information available on the official Sushi Mentai website, Sushi Mentai is not a Halal-certified restaurant. However, they state that they do not serve any dishes with pork or lard, and the poultry products they serve are Halal-certified. Muslim consumers are advised to consider this information when making dining choices.
Sushi Mentai’s Expansion and Market Presence in Malaysia
Since its establishment in 2011, Sushi Mentai has experienced significant growth and currently operates 20 outlets in heartland areas in Malaysia. Their expansion strategy has focused on bringing quality Japanese food at affordable prices to the masses, contributing to their strong market presence in major cities and towns throughout the country. They aimed to grow the number of outlets by three-fold by the end of 2025, indicating ambitious expansion plans.
How to apply Franchise:
- Research & Inquiry: Before everything, explore franchise options online to find the suitable franchise for you. Visit the franchisor’s website or franchise resource website and contact them.
- Application & Qualification: Complete the franchise application. Provide financial documents they requested. Attend an initial interview to understand their latest business plan and strategy.
- FDD & Agreement: Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). If you don’t know what is FDD, read the article here. If everything is good, sign the franchise agreement.
- Training & Support: Complete the franchisor’s training program. Get help with site selection and setup. Receive ongoing operational support.
- Outlet Opening & Operation: Now, start to set up your franchise outlet. Then you can launch your business. Remember, always follow franchisor guidelines.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is based on general knowledge and information available as of May 2025, incorporating the provided reference. The specifics of Sushi Mentai’s franchise program, requirements, and costs are subject to change. Interested parties should consult the official Sushi Mentai website and directly contact the company for the most up-to-date details.
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Resources:
Sushi Mentai, https://sushi-mentai.com/EN/home
Malaysia’s Menu: https://malaysiamenus.com/sushi-mentai-menu/