Yoro No Taki, the popular Japanese izakaya chain, has surprisingly seen its total number of outlets shrink to just 10% of its former size. The dramatic decrease has sparked intense industry discussions, and the public is questioning the reasons behind the steep decline. Investigations are underway to find specific reasons; however, initial reports suggest economic downturn and the recent pandemic could be the main culprits.

Izakayas - akin to taverns or pubs in Japan - provide a cultural hub for socializing, making Yoro No Taki a household name throughout Japan. The significant decline of branches is seen as an indicator of economic strain, particularly on small and medium-sized businesses. The story has raised concerns about job losses and the future of Japan's food and beverage industry.

Similar to the situation in Japan, the U.S. and EU have also seen a significant decrease in restaurant operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic's economic impact. Trends such as these point to a larger, global problem in the food and beverage industry and raise concerns about sustained financial viability for smaller businesses.