Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Executes Key Franchise Deal to Expand Into Japan

Dickey’s announced today that the company has signed an area development agreement with Sunsheng (Jason) Lin, owner of Seikou Co. LTD, to make its Japan debut in metropolis of Tokyo. The family-owned franchise will open two ghost kitchens in spring and fall 2021, respectively.

“We are beyond excited about the opportunity to work with experienced food and beverage operators like Jason and his extremely talented team,” said Roland Dickey Jr., CEO of Dickey's Capital Group. “Jason’s knowledge of food and the market will undoubtedly make Dickey’s a success.”

In August, the world’s largest barbecue concept launched ghost kitchens as a new franchise opportunity. The model allows restaurants to maximize delivery coverage without the upfront investment that a traditional brick-and-mortar location requires. In addition to virtual kitchens providing lower overall costs, they also offer a fast-track to opening, with locations ready to begin serving in just six to eight weeks.

“The opportunity to partner with Dickey’s came about by a twist of fate,” Lin said. “What was first planned this past January over dinner in Dubai, was put on pause due to Covid-19. But, allowing the pandemic to break my dream of operating this brand was simply not in the cards. With God’s assistance, I’m proud to bring Dickey’s to the Japanese consumer. It will be my utmost priority to manage this brand dutifully and have my team deliver the American spirit that Dickey’s portrays. My ultimate goal is for Dickey’s to be present in every city in Japan.”

“We are thrilled for our first location to open in this massively attractive global city,” said Jim Perkins, vice president of international development for Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “My time in Japan taught me to understand that dining in Tokyo is about bringing people together, socializing and building stronger ties to the community. With two new ghost kitchens, we know we are providing a special way for guests to conveniently connect over Dickey’s Legit. Texas. Barbecue. in the comfort of their home.”