Japanese sushi chain Hamazushi has announced the introduction of a late-night dining surcharge. This decision comes amidst increasing operational costs and seeks to offset the expenses of maintaining extended hours. The exact timing of the surcharge's implementation and the specifics of the added costs have not been disclosed at this time, leading to speculation and discussion among consumers.

In Japan, 24-hour operations are common for dining establishments, even for well-established chains like Hamazushi. People value the convenience and availability of late-night meals, which are often cheaper than meals during regular hours. The introduction of a late-night surcharge could potentially disrupt this pattern and has sparked economic and cultural debates.

In the US or EU, operating hours for restaurants often vary, and 24-hour establishments are less common. Thus, surcharges for late-night dining are not as prevalent. If introduced in these regions, it may be seen as a business strategy to control customer flow during peak times and reduce the strain on staff and resources.