CLAIMS TO FAME
- Founded Maruhan in 1957 and still running it at age 92
- Japan’s largest pachinko operator in revenue terms
Japan’s pachinko industry is facing unprecedented challenges, with government regulations that limit payouts and an ageing player base making it difficult to maintain its once massive player base.
The result has been considerable consolidation of the industry, with larger operators swallowing up the less fortunate and parlors closing down nationwide. From a peak of 18,000 parlors in 1995 – when active player numbers were estimated at 30 million – the number of parlors recognized by the local union had fallen to 10,060 by the end of 2018, then to 9,638 by 2019, 8,302 in 2020 and 7,637 in 2021, with active players said to be below 10 million. Latest figures from the union have parlor numbers as low as 6,857 although the police authority has this number pegged at 7,665.
Either way, Maruhan as by far the largest pachinko operator in Japan is bucking that trend and continues to exhibit positive momentum in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the fiscal year ended 31 March 2023, Maruhan reported net sales of JPY1.32 trillion (US$8.86 billion), up 3.8% year-on-year and the second straight year of gains.
It was, however, still down from JPY1.55 trillion (US$10.3 billion) in the 12 months to March 2019 and JPY1.51 trillion (US$10.0 billion) in FY20.
Maruhan’s founder, 92-year-old Japanese-Korean businessman Han Chang-woo, continues to power along, ably supported by his son and Maruhan COO Yu Han.
Founded in 1958, Maruhan’s parlors are considered to be larger and more inviting than those offered by smaller rivals, giving it an edge over those who can’t afford to offer the same ancillary facilities.
For the full list of 2023 Asian Gaming Power 50 winners, click here.
