FujiSan: Bringing Authentic Sushi Culture to American Palates

FujiSan has carved out a distinctive place in the U.S. food franchise landscape with its focus on fresh sushi and Asian-inspired cuisine. Launched in 2008 by two brothers originally from Tokyo, the brand was created with the goal of making high-quality Japanese food more accessible to everyday consumers.

Based in Santa Fe Springs, California, FujiSan has grown its footprint across the nation. Its menu features a broad selection of offerings such as sushi rolls, warm rice bowls, combo platters, savory sides, and boba beverages—all made with an emphasis on freshness and variety.

In 2016, FujiSan opened its concept to franchising, allowing operators to set up Asian bar kiosks within a range of high-traffic venues. These include grocery stores, big-box retailers, educational campuses, healthcare institutions, office complexes, and entertainment destinations.

What sets FujiSan apart in a competitive market is its commitment to sustainable ingredients and a dynamic menu designed to appeal to a wide spectrum of tastes, staying true to its mission of sharing Japanese flavors in a fresh and modern way.

Training

Fujisan Franchising Corp. provides a structured and multi-phase training program for franchisees to ensure proper operation and product quality at their kiosks. Here are the training programs offered by the franchisor:

1. 2-Day Online Certification Program (for Designated Owners)
   This initial program includes online sessions focused on:
   • Sushi Chef Program Overview and Orientation (2 hours)
   • Food Safety, Sanitation, and Good Manufacturing Practices (6 hours)
   • Franchise Business Management (5 hours)
     The total is 13 hours of online classroom training with no on-the-job component.
2. 5-Day Owner Certification Program (for Designated Owners)
   This in-person program includes both classroom and hands-on training. Subjects and their durations include:
   • Food Safety, Sanitation, and GMP (4 hours classroom, 5 hours on-the-job)
   • Sushi Preparation and Handling (varied hours across multiple locations including Fuji-NC, Fuji-CA, or franchisee’s own kiosk)
3. Initial Certification Program and On-Site Curriculum
   The franchisor provides a certification program for the first kiosk at designated training facilities or the franchisee’s own kiosk. This covers sushi preparation techniques, system guidelines, and quality standards.
4. Remedial Certification Program
   If a kiosk fails to meet the franchisor’s standards, designated owners and managers may be required to attend remedial programs. These aim to correct and enhance operations, with associated program fees and travel costs borne by the franchisee.
5. Additional Instructional Programs and Consultations
   The franchisor may mandate further training sessions or consultations for owners and managers to remain updated on system changes, preparation methods, and quality control. These can be held at the franchisor’s headquarters or other selected venues.

Territory Protection

Fujisan Franchising Corp. does not offer its franchisees any exclusive or protected territory. Franchisees are not granted territorial rights, meaning the franchisor may establish additional kiosks or authorize other franchisees to operate within proximity to an existing location. This lack of territory protection is explicitly disclosed in their documentation to ensure transparency.

Instead of territorial exclusivity, the franchisor focuses on maintaining uniformity and operational standards across all locations. While this policy allows Fujisan to expand its brand presence freely, it could result in increased competition among franchisees operating in close geographic areas. Prospective franchisees are advised to carefully consider this factor when evaluating the business opportunity.