Kirin Holdings Company, Limited is a Tokyo-based conglomerate with roots dating back to 1885 when Japan’s first domestic beer was brewed under its predecessor. Over the decades, the company has grown into a diversified beverage and bio-pharmaceutical group. While beer remains at its core, Kirin has expanded into non-alcoholic beverages, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.
In its alcoholic beverages segment, Kirin is best known for flagship brands such as Kirin Lager and Ichiban Shibori. The company’s brewing arm operates multiple breweries in Japan and overseas, producing a range of beers, wines and spirits. Kirin has also pursued international expansion, notably through the acquisition of Australia’s Lion Nathan in 2009, establishing a strong presence in Oceania and bolstering its global beer portfolio.
Beyond beer, Kirin’s non-alcoholic division offers soft drinks, teas and sports beverages under labels like Kirin Gogo no Kocha and Kirin Mets. The company’s health and bio-pharmaceutical operations—anchored by its ownership stake in Kyowa Kirin—focus on therapeutic proteins, vaccines and functional ingredients for medical and wellness markets. This diversification reflects Kirin’s strategy to leverage biotechnology and food science across multiple growth sectors.
Serving markets throughout Asia, Australia, the Americas and Europe, Kirin employs a regional approach that tailors products to local tastes and regulatory environments. Under the leadership of President & CEO Yoshinori Kaneko, the group emphasizes sustainable sourcing, reducing environmental impact and fostering community engagement. Kirin continues to balance its heritage as one of Japan’s oldest brewers with investments in innovation and global partnerships.
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