Japan's Century-Old Businesses Face Record Bankruptcy Rates in 2026
In 2026, Japan is witnessing a record number of bankruptcies among companies over 100 years old. Experts attribute this trend to rising costs, labor shortages, shrinking domestic markets, and succession challenges. These long-established firms have historically thrived due to family ownership, strong community ties, and conservative business practices. Rising material costs and geopolitical risks are forcing some businesses to restructure or go private. Kadoya Sesame Mills, a 168-year-old company listed on the Jasdaq Securities Exchange since 2004, is preparing for privatization via a tender offer backed by Japanese private equity firm Integral. Bankruptcies linked to high costs and labor shortages have surged in early 2026. Economists note that while these companies possess strong balance sheets from years of capital accumulation, they are increasingly concerned about long-term profitability amid demographic shifts and global competition.
Topics: bankruptcies century-old companies Japanese economy private equity succession challenges