Sakae Sushi, founded in 1997 by visionary entrepreneur Foo, opened its first outlet in Raffles Place, Singapore. Over the years, it has become Singapore’s largest conveyor-belt sushi chain. With over 100 outlets in countries such as China, India, Malaysia, and the Philippines, Sakae Sushi has expanded significantly. Apart from its flagship brand, Sakae also boasts several subsidiary brands like Sakae Teppanyaki and Sakae Express, creating a diverse portfolio in the Japanese dining space. This expansion demonstrates the brand’s commitment to offering affordable and innovative dining experiences worldwide.
Commitment to Social Responsibility
Sakae Sushi’s dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR) extends beyond its business objectives. The company has launched numerous programs to uplift marginalized groups, including underprivileged children, incarcerated individuals, and the illiterate. Sakae’s environmental commitment also stands out, as the company has applied sustainable practices across its operations globally. For example, Sakae focuses on minimizing waste, reducing energy consumption, and supporting green initiatives. The brand firmly believes in the “triple bottom line” approach—considering people, planet, and profit as equal pillars of its sustainability strategy.
Foo’s Entrepreneurial Journey and Philosophy
Foo, motivated by a vision to make Japanese food accessible to all, founded Sakae Sushi with a clear goal—make dining affordable without compromising quality. Prior to opening Sakae, Foo observed the high cost of Japanese food and saw an opportunity to revolutionize the dining experience. His introduction of the kaiten-zushi (conveyor-belt sushi) system in Singapore was a breakthrough that transformed the way people consumed Japanese cuisine. Foo’s entrepreneurial philosophy revolves around solving problems and creating value, not just for profit but to improve society. This mindset has been integral to Sakae’s success.
Branding and Leadership: People-Centric Approach
Foo believes that a company’s brand extends beyond its products—it’s about connecting with people, both customers and staff. Branding, to Foo, should resonate with the soul of the organization. He argues that a business’s success is influenced not just by its products but by its employees’ satisfaction. A company that treats its staff well is more likely to have employees who act as true brand advocates, helping the business thrive. This people-first approach to leadership ensures that Sakae Sushi is both loved by its customers and respected by its employees, contributing to its strong brand presence.
The Meaning Behind the Sakae Logo
The Sakae logo holds deep significance in reflecting Foo’s vision for the company. The frog, symbolizing prosperity and growth, encapsulates the core values of the business. The frog’s eyes represent foresight, ensuring that Sakae stays ahead of the competition. The smile signifies the commitment to good service, while the body and legs resemble gold ingots, symbolizing prosperity. All elements of the logo represent the unity and collaborative spirit of the Sakae team, working together toward the company’s continuous development and success. The logo is a reminder of the brand’s overarching philosophy of development, or “Sakae,” in Japanese.
Foo’s Philosophy on Entrepreneurship
Foo has always believed that entrepreneurship is not merely about making money but about solving problems and creating a greater impact. He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to think beyond financial gains and consider the societal benefits of their ventures. According to Foo, young businesspeople should be curious about their future roles and take steps toward self-discovery and goal-setting early in their careers. By understanding their interests and aspirations, entrepreneurs can create businesses that not only succeed but also contribute positively to society. His approach is a testament to his belief that entrepreneurship is a continuous journey of learning and personal growth.
Future Vision: Expanding to North Korea
Looking ahead, Foo’s vision for Sakae Sushi includes expanding to new and untapped markets. One of the most intriguing potential markets for the brand is North Korea. Foo sees the region as a unique opportunity for growth, particularly due to its relatively underdeveloped commercial landscape. He envisions establishing a strong presence in the country and leveraging the lack of competition to create a monopoly in the region. This ambitious plan reflects Foo’s forward-thinking nature and his ability to spot opportunities where others might not. His long-term goal is to position Sakae Sushi as an international leader in the global dining industry.
