Original Source
Mini Stop's In-Store Cooking Resumption Rate Reaches Only 40% Following Expiration Date Forgery Scandal
Slow Progress in In-Store Cooking Resumption Despite Preventative Efforts
In August last year, Mini Stop was found to have sold in-store prepared foods with forged expiration dates at 25 locations nationwide. This incident led to the complete suspension of in-store cooking services across all its stores. In September of the same year, Mini Stop announced preventative measures, which included the installation of cameras to monitor kitchen operations and the introduction of new labelers capable of printing expiration dates. Sales resumed from October at stores where these measures had been fully implemented. However, currently, only about 770 stores nationwide have reopened, representing approximately 40% of the total number prior to the suspension. The company anticipates a significant deficit for the current fiscal year.
Franchisees' Hesitation and Headquarters' Position
Concerns raised by franchisees are identified as a primary factor in the delayed resumption of in-store cooking. One franchisee expressed a feeling that the headquarters lacks trust in its franchise stores, highlighting challenges such as the cost burden of surveillance camera communication fees and staffing shortages resulting from more intricate operational procedures. Furthermore, some have voiced reluctance to reopen due to the complexity of tasks that student part-timers cannot easily perform. In response, Mini Stop stated that it is pushing for sales resumption after confirming the thorough implementation of its preventative measures and equipment operations. The company also clarified that the resumption of in-store cooking is conducted via an application system initiated by franchise stores, taking into account their operational and cost considerations.
*Source: YouTube: NTV NEWS (2026-03-12)*
