Universal Works Opens First Permanent Store in Tokyo

Universal Works has opened its first permanent store in Japan at Hankyu Men’s Tokyo in Ginza, bringing together the British menswear brand’s collection and Works Canteen, its first café concept, under one roof.

The opening marks a new stage in Universal Works’ relationship with Japan, where the brand has been sold for 15 years. Co-founder David Keyte first visited Tokyo in the 1990s and has described the city’s approach to clothing, architecture, food and everyday objects as an enduring influence on the thinking behind the business.

Rather than directly adopting Japanese clothing references, Keyte said the influence has been rooted in an approach to making, materials and utility.

“It is less about directly referencing Japanese clothing and more about adopting an attitude and an approach to making things. It is that spirit of consideration, rather than any one garment, that has had the biggest influence on Universal Works.”

David Keyte, Co-Founder, Universal Works

Keyte and fellow co-founder Stephanie have developed Universal Works around an emphasis on well-made, useful clothing, with attention to detail and an appreciation of how garments can develop through use.

The brand’s 15-year presence in Japan has also established relationships with local shops, partners and customers. The decision to establish a permanent Tokyo location developed through those relationships rather than as part of a predetermined international store programme.

“What makes this even more special is that it happened through relationships rather than strategy. There was never a grand plan to open a store in Japan. The opportunity came through people who believed in what we do. In many ways, Japan chose us.”

David Keyte, Co-Founder, Universal Works

Universal Works Tokyo Store Design

Universal Works Tokyo is located within Hankyu Men’s Tokyo in Ginza. The store follows elements found across the brand’s other retail spaces, including green steelwork, simple materials, open clothing rails and practical detailing. It was made locally in Japan and has been conceived as a space that can change over time.

The project combines those established Universal Works design elements with a setting intended to develop its own character in Tokyo. The city has also seen other international brands establish permanent retail spaces in recent years, including Calvin Klein’s Harajuku flagship in 2025 and Jo Malone London’s Harajuku store in 2024.

Works Canteen Introduces Hospitality Concept

Alongside the clothing offer is Works Canteen, the company’s first café. The concept is based on the traditional canteen as a simple and practical gathering place and is an idea Keyte has wanted to develop for several years.

“A canteen is an honest, uncomplicated place. It serves simple food, done well, and brings people together. That felt very much in keeping with Universal Works.”

David Keyte, Co-Founder, Universal Works

Works Canteen is opening with a deliberately limited offer centred on coffee, snacks and British influences, alongside matcha. Universal Works intends to allow the concept to develop over time in response to how the space is used, with British references expected to meet Japanese ingredients and ideas.

The Tokyo opening reflects a relationship with Japan that Universal Works describes as an ongoing exchange rather than a one-way influence. It also represents the brand’s furthest permanent outpost to date.