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Japan possesses one of the most extensive and complex food and beverage industries in the world, with a market size valued at approximately 76 trillion JPY in 2023. The sector is historically characterized by an intricate, multi-tiered distribution network of intermediaries, with a few dominating large corporations and a wealth of fragmented small companies, to ensure food supply to the end-consumer.
The complexity of these channels stems from Japan’s rugged geography, the prevalence of small-scale manufacturers and retailers and, most importantly, the unwavering expectations of Japanese consumers for a large variety of high-quality, fresh products to be readily available at all times. Recently, structural societal changes have impacted the food and beverage industry, requiring actors to remain agile and adapt to new demands, such as the increased preference for convenience and frozen foods for example.
Given the high demand, Japan’s retail and food service landscapes are of unparalleled depth. Food is virtually accessible at all hours through an extensive brick-and-mortar network of convenience stores, supermarkets, drugstores and vending machines. Due to the strong physical footprint, e-commerce is not yet as prevalent. Meanwhile, the on-premise food service sector is still recovering from the impact of COVID-19 and subsequent societal shifts.
The industry currently faces significant challenges, most notably rising labour shortages and ongoing inflationary pressures. To address these issues, companies are embracing digital transformation - including robotics, automation or data analytics - to maintain profitability. With the rise of digital technologies, and international trade, the industry has been undergoing structural shifts, with power moving from manufacturers toward retailers, who leverage data ownership and direct sourcing.
With a low self-sufficiency rate requiring high food imports and the current strategic challenges, European SMEs have significant opportunities to enter the food industry or provide digital transformation solutions. Join our upcoming webinar to gain comprehensive insights into Japanese food distribution channels, explore emerging consumer trends impacting the distribution, and learn about critical industry issues and opportunities.
The webinar is targeted at EU companies seeking to understand the Japanese food distribution channels or entering the food industry.
In 40 minutes from your desk, discover:
Programme:
Speaker:
Caroline Hayashi (HC Japan Consulting) has over 15 years’ experience in marketing management positions within leading luxury groups (LVMH, Richemont) in Japan, Germany and France. Building on her expertise in strategic brand management as well as extensive hands-on experience in implementing marketing strategies, she is now working as an independent business development and marketing consultant for Japanese and European SMEs.
Moderator: Sofia Smerzi, Business Support Coordinator, EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Organiser: EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation - Brussels Office
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