Our story

Our Misson

To be the customer’s solution for premium, ready to eat food options based on excellence and trust.

Our Vision

To become the leading multi-national food service provider.
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A story of growth

Bento began in 1996 in downtown Toronto as a small takeout shop offering sushi, bento boxes, and ready-to-eat foods. Since then, we have grown to become Canada’s largest sushi company.

What remains the same, despite our growth, is our commitment to excellence and providing an environment where our team knows we care about their personal and professional development.

Our culture

Guided by our values and principles that have shaped our company from day one
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Own it

We take accountability and initiative to ensure our food solutions are always trusted.

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Care about it

We act with integrity and respect our community to uphold the foundation of our mission.

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Make it exceptional

We build positive relationships and go the extra mile to make every experience exceptional.

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Win together

We foster team spirit through clear communication and a supportive environment to deliver reliable, premium food.

Our history & milestones

1996
2002
2005
2013
2019
2021
2023
2025
2026

The first roll

Founded by Ken Valvur in Toronto with our first QSR location and commissary.

Strategic growth

Expanded through the acquisition of Kamikaze and Makisushi.

National partner

Became the national sushi provider for Loblaws, reaching grocery stores coast-to-coast.

Crossing borders

Entered the U.S. grocery market through a major partnership with ShopRite.

Global scale

Joined Snowfox Group, creating one of the world’s largest sushi networks.

The costco launch

Partnership with Costco across North America brings Bento to more communities.

Global leadership

Acquired by Zensho Holdings, enhancing our position in the global market.

Expanding horizons

Became the exclusive sushi vendor for Trader Joe’s.

30 years of Bento

Celebrating three decades of freshness, quality, and community.

Our brand portfolio

From premium chef-crafted kiosks to convenient ready-to-eat solutions, our specialized brands deliver excellence across every model.

Chef-crafted, premium sushi prepared daily on-site at retail kiosks.

Bento express

Commissary-produced sushi using a proprietary rice recipe for quality and convenience.

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Grab-and-go sushi with an extended shelf life, available at select Costco stores.

Raku

High-quality, Asian-inspired hot meals and rolls.

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Fresh, ready-to-eat sandwiches and salads designed for an on-the-go lifestyle.

Bento home

Premium retail ingredients, kits, and tools to master the art of sushi in your own kitchen. Currently only available in Canada.

Behind the freshness

Our people are at the heart of everything we do. From chefs to operations teams, we foster an inclusive culture where individuals are supported, empowered, and proud of the food they create—every single day.
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Want to join our corporate team?

Build a meaningful career with a brand that values growth, diversity, and excellence. We’re always looking for passionate individuals to help us lead the sushi industry.

See our sustainability commitment in action

We are committed to giving back through strategic initiatives and partnerships that promote social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.