Japan's century-old businesses are disappearing at a record pace
Japan is seeing a record number of century-old businesses closing or going private due to labor shortages, rising costs, and succession challenges. Experts note that even established firms are struggling to maintain profitability in the current economic climate.
Why it matters
The decline of long-standing Japanese firms highlights broader structural economic issues, including an aging population and deflationary pressures.
Founded in 1858, Japanese sesame oil maker Kadoya Sesame Mills has witnessed the country transform over generations — surviving world wars and Japan's asset bubble.
Now, more than two decades after listing on the Jasdaq Securities Exchange in 2004, Kadoya is set to go private through a tender offer backed by Japanese private equity firm Integral. The move comes as the company navigates rising raw-material costs and heightened geopolitical risks.
Japan's long-established businesses are being tested by factors ranging from a shrinking domestic market and labor shortages to succession challenges, experts told CNBC. Bankruptcies among Japanese businesses with more than 100 years of history are occurring at a record pace, reaching 112 in the first eight months of 2026, according to Teikoku Databank.
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