Market Trends & Outlook

Strong Growth in Japan’s Wine, Beer and Spirits Market to Continue

  • Japan remains to be the biggest importer of spirits in the Asia Pacific region.
  • Every tenth alcoholic drink, bought in Japan belongs to the liqueur / spirits segment.
  • Spirits and Liquors enjoy great popularity as cocktail ingredient.
  • Liqueurs and cocktailed spirits continue to be a favorite among women for their sweet taste, lower alcohol content, and visual appearance.
  • Rising popularity of Shochu (traditional Japanese spirit) due to perceived health benefits.
  • Japan is the country with the highest per capita Beer consumption in Asia
  • Beer remains the favorite alcoholic drink of the Japanese consumers.
  • Beer market diversifies from traditional malt beers to Happoshu (low-malt) and Third Beers (no-malt).
  • Japan is Asia Pacific's second biggest wine importing country.
  • Japan is the 6th biggest consumer of imported wines worldwide.
  • Around 70% of wine consumed in Japan is imported.
  • Japans imported bottled wine valued USD 1,052 million in 2014.
  • Bulk wine imports continue to grow as private labelling continues to grow.
  • 3,324 thousand hectoliters of wine were consumed in Japan in 2013.
  • Popularity of sparkling wine among, both Japanese man and women, continues to grow.
  • Sales of high priced wines (above 3,000 JPY) continue to increase.
  • Bottled wine market increased to 1.81 million bottles (+0.4%) in 2014.
  • Consumers behavior established a regular purchase of wine.
  • Organic wines remain popular as consumers are very health conscious.

Opportunities in Japan’s Food Service and Private Label Sectors

  • Between the US and China, Japan is one of the strongest economic regions in the world, enjoying high levels of domestic consumption with food and drink contributing a significant portion of the nation's spending.
  • The Japanese enjoy dining out and demand high-quality food and service, indicating a strong and positive willingness to spend.
  • The consumer food industry is estimated to be worth $292 billion, with the restaurant industry accounting for $214 billion. This sector offers unique opportunities, with major chain restaurants playing an important role.
  • Bespoke and private brands able to tailor portion size, packaging, labels and even flavours to the needs of top retailers are increasingly popular now, allowing for exponential growth in the sector.