Successes and Failures Case Study: Kirin Mets Cola

Effective innovation is difficult to come by, but it is the key to sustained competitive advantage in the consumer packaged goods industry. Lessons can be learned from both successes and failures. This case study looks at how the Kirin brand has recently succeeded in Japan by tapping into the consumer desire for healthy indulgence.

• Access comprehensive analysis of global successes and failures in the consumer packaged goods industry to drive ideation and inspiration.
• Obtain country-specific consumer insight to understand the consumer attitudes and needs that underpinned innovation success/failure.
• Avoid costly investments by learning important lessons from companies and brands that have failed or under-delivered.
• Obtain a broader appreciation of the CPG industry by gaining insights from both within and outside of your category.

Around 80% of new product innovation fails – highlighting the challenge that industry players face in innovating in today’s competitive market landscape. Failed innovation can severely undermine profits and brand reputations. Conversely, the rewards for successful innovation are substantial.

Datamonitor is constantly monitoring the big winners and losers in the CPG industry. Each case contains background information, describes how developments unfolded, and is contextualized by Datamonitor’s own research and analysis.

This case looks at the example of Kirin Mets Cola in Japan. The brand has seen substantial take-up due to its weight-loss claims.

• Why is Kirin Mets Cola considered an interesting case of success?
• How does Datamonitor judge the success of Kirin Mets Cola?
• What consumer insight has underpinned this?
• What can I learn from the success of Kirin Mets Cola in Japan?

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By company: Kirin Brewery Co.