When U.S.-based hamburger chain Wendy's came back to Japan in December 2011, it aimed to increase the number of outlets to 100 in five years.
But now, over three years later, Wendy's has just two outlets open here.
Wendy's Japan chief Ernest M. Higa admits that things have not turned out as planned, since it has been difficult to secure prime locations in cities. But he stressed that the company has been learning the Japanese market and is still looking to expand with a concept of "fast casual" — meaning a more upscale dining experience than regular fast food.