Canadian fast casual Edo Japanopened its first U.S. location last spring in Chandler, Arizona, under the Edo Japanese Grill banner. Known for teppan-style teriyaki, sushi, and bento boxes, it brought more than 200 Canadian locations and decades of experience to its U.S. debut.
Partnering with Western Retail Advisors associate vice president Alberto Caballero, the brand focused on a cluster of Phoenix-area submarkets chosen for population growth, higher incomes, and strong retail fundamentals. Familiarity helped, too. Many Canadians winter or own second homes in the region, giving the brand a built-in audience. Direct flights from Calgary, Alberta, allowed leadership to stay closely involved during the early launch.
Caballero says Edo was clear about its real estate priorities from the outset. High-visibility locations, national co-tenancy, and strong traffic patterns were non-negotiable…