Approximately 60% Experience 'Cardboard Box Meals' Immediately After Moving, According to menu Survey

menu Inc., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and led by Representative Director Atsuo Shinoda, operates the delivery app "menu." The company conducted a survey coinciding with the moving season to understand the prevalence of "cardboard box meals." The survey revealed that approximately 60% of respondents had experienced eating on the floor or cardboard boxes immediately after moving, a common situation during new beginnings. The survey, conducted on menu's official X account from February 24 to March 3, 2026, gathered 1,406 valid responses. 59.7% (840 individuals) confirmed having this experience, indicating it's a reality for about two out of three people. Reasons for "cardboard box meals" were categorized into two main types: "desk unavailable" (due to unpacking time constraints or busy moving day) and "no desk yet" (due to delayed furniture delivery, inability to find a preferred table, or mismatched delivery timings). These situations are typical of new living arrangements, making "cardboard box meals" a temporary dining style until preparations are complete. Some respondents even shared emotional experiences, recalling tears of anxiety that later became cherished memories. Meals chosen immediately after moving were primarily convenient options that required no cooking, such as convenience store bentos, fast food like gyudon, takeout deli, cup noodles/instant food, and delivery services. Respondents noted the convenience due to lack of time and energy. The article emphasizes that menu's features, including star ratings, product-specific reviews, repeat rankings, "everyone's high ratings," and personalized recommendations, help users choose meals confidently even in unfamiliar areas. menu Inc. aims to be a "life infrastructure where anything can be comfortably obtained when desired." In 2023, it formed a joint venture with KDDI and Reazon HD. The app is available in 33 prefectures for delivery on iOS/Android. Ponta Pass, a monthly subscription service, offers benefits like free delivery for its members.