The story revolves around a man in Japan who is making a name—and a sizable income—for himself as a ‘Bennri-ya’ or handyman, earning an estimated 10 million yen annually. His diversified array of services cover everything from fixing appliances to running errands and even offering companionship. His thriving business is testament to the importance of multi-skilled individuals in the gig economy.

Japan's longstanding culture of hard work and entrepreneurship likely plays a considerable role in this handyman's success. Many in Japan value versatility and the dedication to succeed in multiple assigned tasks. Therefore, a multi-skilled vendor can often gain significant respect and demand in the market.

In comparison, in the US and EU, freelancing and gig economy are quite prevalent. There is a similar respect for individuals who offer multiple services. However, the market is far more saturated with competition, and annual earnings can vary greatly depending on specialization, experience, and location.