JAPAN: Kirin Holdings chasing rising beer consumption in Asia - report

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 26 March 2008

Kirin Holdings is on the hunt for partnerships in India, Thailand and Vietnam, according to local reports.

A report in Kyodo News late last week said that the Japanese beer and soft drinks company is looking for tie-ups in the three countries in an attempt to up its brewing operations in Asia.

Citing Kirin's president, Kazuyasu Kato, the paper said the company is aiming to become the largest food and drink producer in market capitalisation terms in Asia and Oceania. Kato targeted rising beer consumption in India, Thailand and Vietnam as the main reason for the search for alliances.

Earlier this year, Kirin said it was teaming up with its trans-Tasman unit Lion Nathan to jointly purchase raw materials. Kirin will be responsible for locating and buying European hops for the two companies, while Lion Nathan will handle procurement of New Zealand hops for itself and Kirin, the two companies announced in January.

Sectors: Beer & cider, Soft drinks, Water

Companies: Kirin, Lion Nathan