The food and drinks group, Danone, has raised its stake in the Japanese dairy and drinks company, Yakult Honsha Co., from 5% to 19%.

Financial details of the deal were not released by Danone. Yakult Honsha, which markets the Yakult drinking yoghurt brands, has around a 10% share of the Japanese soft drinks market. The company recorded revenues of Y230 billion in 2002.

Just Drinks Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Drinks Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
De Kuyper Royal Distillers’ De Kuyper Batched 0.0% range has won both Innovation and Product Launches honours in the 2025 Just Drinks Excellence Awards. Learn how these premium, non-alcoholic RTD cocktails help operators serve consistent, bar-quality drinks while tapping fast-growing demand for sophisticated alcohol-free options.

Discover the Impact