Koshidaka Holdings, a leading player in Japan’s leisure industry, is planning to establish its popular karaoke chain in the Philippines by the end of this year, according to Trade Secretary Cristina Roque.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, March 11, Roque said she met executives of Koshidaka during her business trip to Japan last week.
She told reporters that the company is “aggressive” in its plans to put up a business in the country, noting that its officials will visit in April to explore various areas where they can open.
Koshidaka, operator of Karaoke Manekineko, plans to unveil its first branch in Metro Manila by the end of 2025.
It plans to expand to 30 locations, with a long-term goal of reaching 100 locations nationwide.
“They want to open here in the Philippines because, for them, attractive ‘yung 115 million Filipinos natin (115 million Filipinos are an attractive market),” said Roque, referring to the country’s population.
Karaoke Manekineko, which has over 600 chains in Japan, is a family-oriented karaoke chain known for its budget-friendly pricing, bring-your-food policy, and 24/7 availability.
The Trade Secretary said these offerings, including those tailored to Filipino preferences, will be made available to consumers.
She noted that Koshidaka has already expanded into neighboring countries, Indonesia and Malaysia, where it received a strong response.
The company is expected to perform even better in the Philippines given the shared communal interest in singing, particularly through karaoke.
While it has yet to disclose the amount it plans to invest in the country, Roque said Koshidaka’s primary focus for now is securing suitable locations for its karaoke hubs.
Roque said she recently met with the country’s mall operators, such as the SM Group, Ayala Malls, Robinson Malls, and Gaisano Malls, to gauge their interest in this planned venture.
According to her, the operators are “very interested” in Koshidaka.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently said that Koshidaka plans to establish a fully owned subsidiary, Koshidaka Philippines, by mid-2025.
Based on reports, the Japan-based firm is doubling down on its expansion efforts to Southeast Asia as its home market dwindles due to population decline.
Meanwhile, the DTI chief said Koshidaka is also looking to expand its all-female gym chain, Curves, in the Philippines to capitalize on the country’s growing fitness trend.
The company, also known for its onsen or bathhouse services under the Maneki no Yu brand, is likewise exploring the possibility of opening such facilities in the country.
Roque said the Philippines presents a promising market for bathhouses, as they align with Filipinos’ strong interest in relaxation spaces.