Functional drinks - Big in Japan

Functional drinks may be a relatively recent phenomenon in many markets but they are certainly nothing new in Japan where ‘genki’ energy drinks have been enthusiastically consumed for decades. Moreover, writes Gavin Blair, deregulation has fostered further growth in the health drinks market.

Focus - Japanese continue to thirst for functional drinks

7 August 2008

JAPAN: Kirin to expand soft drinks, silent on Cadbury Schweppes

5 August 2008

Kirin, the Japanese drinks firm, has said it intends to expand its soft drinks division overseas, but declined to comment on speculation that it has shown interest in Cadbury Schweppes' Australian drinks arm.

JAPAN: Coca-Cola seeks further acquisitions

13 May 2008

Drinks giant Coca-Cola Co., is seeking more acquisition opportunities in the fast-growing soft drinks market to expand its revenue sources, according to reports.