JAPAN: Kirin, Suntory team up to fight material costs

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 22 October 2007

Kirin Brewery Co., Kirin Beverage Co. and Suntory have teamed up to conserve resources and reduce their packaging costs.

The three Japanese companies said late last week that they will synchronise their aluminium cans and jointly purchase cardboard packaging as costs of the two materials continue to rise. The uniform cans, which narrow towards the top, will result in an estimated saving of around JPY100m (US$876.7m) per year, the companies said.

The two Kirin companies, both controlled by Kirin Holdings, will join Suntory in the cardboard programme it has secured with Nissin Food Products, House Foods and Nagatanien. The programme allows the companies to place cardboard orders well in advance, leading to reduced inventories and greater efficiencies.

Sectors: Beer & cider, Soft drinks, Water

Companies: Kirin, Suntory