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ONE LUKE
A Global Pet Boom and a New Concept Born in Japan
An Interview with Katsuaki Kito, President of Japan Pet Hotel Association Co., Ltd.
The unprecedented global pet boom continues to expand worldwide. From Japan, a new concept in pet hotels has emerged.
We spoke with Katsuaki Kito, President of Japan Pet Hotel Association Co., Ltd., about the philosophy behind the business and its future vision.
■ The Origin of the Business
Beyond the perspective of animal welfare, we started this pet business from our own experiences as pet owners.
As family members ourselves, we often thought: If this were my own family, I would want to do this for them. This would surely make them happier.
In the beginning, our brand awareness was low, and we faced tremendous challenges.
Today, however, we are supported by strong demand from members who wish to entrust their pets to hotels with spacious rooms. As a result, there are now many owners waiting to open new locations.
Our core philosophy is simple and unwavering:
“What can we do to ensure that dogs and cats live their entire lives surrounded by love?”
Through our business, we are committed to continuously raising industry service standards and deepening society’s awareness of the value and dignity of animal life.
■ From a Single Realization to Where We Are Today
Many years ago, I once left my pet at a veterinary clinic. When my family member returned home, their legs were still dirty with feces.
There was no ill intent—it was likely something that simply went unnoticed. But that moment sparked a question in my mind: Why did this happen?
I realized that this was not a lack of skill, but a lack of awareness of hospitality and respect for animal dignity. That realization led me to strongly believe that we must provide proper, heartfelt service ourselves.
Quite frankly, a mindset focused solely on making money, or a purely business-like approach, will never succeed in this industry.
If the owner holds such an attitude, it is immediately reflected in the groomers, the pets, and the customers who treat those pets as family.
This is an industry where emotions and intentions are transmitted very easily. And that, I believe, is exactly why people who truly see pets as family can empathize so deeply with our values.
■ The Unique Features of “One Luke”
In Japan, it is extremely rare to find a business model where pet hotels are the core business and grooming is a secondary service.
Most pet shops, veterinary clinics, and grooming salons keep pets in cages during their stay.
At One Luke, we welcome pets as if they were guests in a luxury hotel, offering them as much open space as possible. Our staff care for them with genuine affection.
When owners come to pick them up, dogs wag their tails enthusiastically, greeting them with radiant smiles.
Inside the hotel, pets stay not in metal cages, but in warm, wooden rooms that provide comfort and a sense of home.
■ Putting Pets First
Sadly, there are people who abandon their dogs or cats. This is unacceptable, yet each case has its own circumstances—travel limitations, family allergies, and many other reasons.
By increasing the number of pet hotels, we hope to alleviate these situations, even if only a little.
At the same time, there are many people who wish to work in roles where they can interact with pets.
As any pet owner knows, animals are incredibly sensitive emotionally. They feel lonely and anxious when their owners are not nearby.
Nothing matters more to them than their bond and daily interaction with their family.
Pets do not ask for much—they cherish ordinary, familiar routines. Humans, on the other hand, experience non-routine situations such as travel or business trips.
One Luke aims to become a presence that allows this relationship to be maintained, even during those unavoidable moments of separation.
■ A Message to Future Franchise Owners
We currently operate Japanese language schools, where we also organize volunteer-based animal rescue activities.
In the Philippines, there are many stray dogs facing tragic futures. This is a heartbreaking reality.
Starting with Asia—including the Philippines and Malaysia—we plan to expand this business as a means of protecting animal lives and dignity.
We sincerely welcome owners who truly love pets. From marketing to store design and construction, we provide full support so that our new partners can focus entirely on their business.
As of the end of December 2025, the total number of opened locations and approved applications has already reached nearly 160 stores.
Our goal is to expand to 300 stores in Japan and 200 overseas, for a total of 500 locations worldwide.