A Coca-Cola alcopop-style drink is set to launch in Japan, marking the first time the brand has ever produced an alcoholic beverage. The soft drinks giant is currently experimenting with a Japanese alcopop-style drink known as Chu-Hi. The beverage typically contains distilled shōchū, sparkling water and additional flavorings, and tends to have between 3% and 8% ABV. While Coca-Cola has yet to explain how it will flavor its Chu-Hi-inspired beverage, it has explained that the Coca-Cola alcopop will contain shochu.
The decision to launch Coca-Cola alcopop in Japan came about for two reasons. The first being the prevalence of the drink in the market and the widespread consumption of beverages such as Chu-Hi. The second reason comes from the way Japan handles alcohol sales, as non-alcoholic beverages and alcohoic beverages are often sold in the same space. This new beverage is unlikely to ever be sold outside of Japan, as it is produced for the unique and special qualities of the Japanese market.
Alcoholic Iconic Sodas
A Coca-Cola Alcopop is Set to Hit Japanese Shelves In the Near Future
Trend Themes
1. Alcopop-style Beverages - There is an opportunity for other soft drink companies to experiment with alcopop-style beverages, especially in markets where it is already popular.
2. Cultural Marketing - Other brands might consider exploring the unique cultural markets and beverage preferences of other countries for potential products or partnerships.
3. Alcohol-infused Beverages - Opportunity for experimentation with new flavors and alcoholic drink combinations that could attract a wider range of consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Alcohol Industry - Alcohol companies could experiment with new beverage combinations to capture the popular market of alcopop-style drinks, like Chu-Hi.
2. Soft Drink Industry - There is a potential opportunity for soft drink companies to expand their market by offering alcoholic-infused beverages and exploring new flavors.
3. Hospitality Industry - Hospitality businesses, such as restaurants and bars, could offer the non-alcoholic and alcoholic versions of these drink styles to cater to different customers.