“In big cities, open small shops. In small cities, open big shops.”

Reflecting on this age-old saying, I've come to appreciate the practical wisdom behind it through my own business experiences. In bustling metropolitan areas, the costs of rent, labor, and utilities are considerably high, which makes operating large stores risky due to thinner profit margins. Small shops, which are easier to manage and maintain quality in, often perform better because they allow personal customer engagement and lower overhead costs. Conversely, in smaller towns or cities where rents are more affordable and competition is less intense, larger shops can attract a broader customer base and leverage economies of scale, making expansion viable without sacrificing sustainability. Moreover, this principle aligns with the reality that increasing scale can amplify costs incrementally. For instance, maintaining premium quality ingredients, such as using 100% yellowtail fish, is costly but crucial for business identity and customer loyalty. Scaling too quickly may pressure businesses to compromise on quality to manage operational expenses, which can undermine brand trust. From personal experience, managing a single well-run store in a big city often leads to better customer satisfaction and stability compared to rapid expansion. It’s about finding balance—prioritizing genuine products and sustainable growth over sheer size. This approach fosters long-term support from customers who value authenticity and quality, making the business more resilient in the volatile market.