Core Viewpoint - The Japanese FOOD&LIFE COMPANIES (F&LC), which operates the SUSHIRO brand, has seen its stock price increase by 2.6 times compared to the end of 2024, driven by strong growth expectations in overseas markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and China [2][4]. Group 1: Company Performance - As of August 18, F&LC's market capitalization exceeded 1 trillion yen, making it the second Japanese restaurant company to reach this milestone after ZENSHO HD [2]. - The stock price reached a record high of 8,724 yen, reflecting a 3% increase from the previous trading day, before closing at 8,533 yen with a total market value of 990.4 billion yen [4]. - The overseas SUSHIRO business, particularly in Southeast Asia, has expanded to 215 stores as of the end of July, marking a 32% year-on-year increase [4]. Group 2: Financial Highlights - For the fiscal year from October 2024 to June 2025, the overseas segment reported a 41% increase in sales revenue to 93.1 billion yen, and operating profit surged 2.2 times to 11.1 billion yen, achieving a profit margin of 12%, surpassing the domestic profit margin of 8% [4][5]. - The pricing strategy, which sets product prices higher than in Japan, has proven successful, supported by enhanced customer experience through innovations like the "Digiro" display system [5]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The recovery of the Chinese market, which had been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Fukushima nuclear water issue, is contributing positively to F&LC's performance [5]. - The company's expansion in East Asia and Southeast Asia is largely unaffected by high U.S. tariffs, which has been positively received by the market [5]. - Analyst Shimizu from Iwai Cosmo Securities noted that the growth in overseas business, particularly in Asia, reflects a positive outlook for F&LC, with further growth potential driven by the Japanese food trend [5].