Kirin The Gold

Kirin has released its new flagship brand The Gold.

Although name and design make it look like another premium beer, the impression is misleading - The Gold is priced in line with other standard beers. Kirin seems to speculate that this "affordable premium" image will be effective in winning over the target group of men in their 20s and 30s. The aim is to turn The Gold into the top beer brand for the young generation and replicate the success Asahi has achieved with its Super Dry among the generation of their fathers.

Gerolsteiner

German mineral water Gerolsteiner has gone on sale in Japan, marketed and distributed by Sapporo.

Starbucks

Starbucks has released a new flavour in its RTD coffee drinks sold at convenience stores.

Umaito

Sapporo has released Umaito, a beer drink with a fun, retro image.

Kanebo

Kanebo will re-release Kaoru Otoko, its body fragrance chewing gum for men on March 19.

Saori

Coca Cola Japan has jumbed the traditional green tea bandwagon and released Saori.

The Black

Sapporo has relaunched the dark beer from its premium Ebisu brand as The Black.