IPPUDO BACKGROUND Ippudo opened its doors in 1985 in Japan’s ramen capital of Hakata and became an instant success. It is widely known for its Shiromaru Classic and Akamaru Modern ramen, Ippudo’s innovative take on the traditional ramen dish. Ippudo was founded by Shigemi Kawahara, the internationally-acclaimed Ramen King and Founder and President of Chikaranomoto Holdings Co. Ltd.; IPPUDO’s parent company, which encompasses some of Japan’s finest restaurants. Kawahara earned the title of Ramen King and a place in the Ramen Hall of Fame after three consecutive first place wins on a Japanese television program where ramen chefs compete to create the best ramen. Kawahara’s attention to detail and hospitality redefined Japan’s ramen experience. Ippudo was the first ramen shop that allowed diners to enjoy quality ramen in a carefully crafted setting. Each Ippudo is known for serving a unique signature ramen dish and all of the locations offer seasonal dishes. Ippudo was also the first to refer to ramen by colour, Aka (red) and Shiro (white), a practice which soon became a standard industry. Kawahara revolutionized the industry with his signature tonkotsu (pork based) ramen. He is known for thinking outside the box and for developing new menus that incorporate unusual ingredients with an international twist. Today, there are over 300 IPPUDO restaurants throughout Japan and almost 150 overseas outlets in major international locations like New York, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, Guangzhou, London, Bangkok, Jakarta and Manila that collectively serve more than 100,000 customers per day.