The Fukuoka branch of Teikoku Databank reported that the 2022 sales of the top 50 shochu and awamori makers hit a record low of 222.7 billion yen, down 7.8% from the previous year. This decline is attributed to reduced restaurant demand due to COVID-19 and difficulty in adapting to younger consumers’ evolving alcohol preferences. Kirishima Shuzo led the list for the 11th year, followed by Sanwa Shurui. Sanwa Shurui’s accounting practices also impacted the sales downturn. Among the 36 companies that disclosed net profits, six were in the red, making up 16.7% of the total—a notable increase from the previous survey. Although companies are attempting innovation, such as fruit liqueurs and low-alcohol drinks, the industry outlook remains bleak with expectations of continued sales decline. Source: Nikkei
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