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 multinational foodservice provider.

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 into one of North America’s largest sushi companies, with a strong and expanding presence across the United States.

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

Our culture is rooted in the core values that have defined how we operate since day one

Own it

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

Care about it

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

Make it exceptional

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

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 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 across North America.

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.

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

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

The faces 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.

A Bento chef preparing fresh salmon for a signature roll.

Team collaboration in a high-standard, food-safe kitchen.

Team member handing a fresh Bento bowl to a smiling customer.

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.