Bordeaux, 25 July 2016 – On 15 & 16 November 2016 in Tokyo, Vinexpo will be giving wine and spirits exporters a platform to boost their business in the Land of the Rising Sun. The event, tailored specifically to the Japanese market, will take place at the Prince Park Tower Hotel in the heart of Tokyo’s business district.
Japan – a unique market
With wine consumption on the rise, the Japanese market is booming again. Wine imports in 2015 totalled 2,793,000 hectolitres, worth 176.28 billion yen (€1.41 billion), an increase of 3.6% in volume and 4.2% in value compared to 2014.
Asia’s biggest market for imported spirits and the second biggest for wine, Japan has extensive and diversified distribution channels, with 178,000 outlets spread over the archipelago.
The Japanese wine and spirits market remains a special case, however. Although it is sophisticated, mature and strongly geared towards high-end products, the business culture in Japan is very different from that of Western countries. This can sometimes make canvassing new customers a long and laborious process. Establishing a personal relationship with decision-makers is one of the keys to success and a valuable time-saver in this dynamic country where people have a deep respect for etiquette and hierarchy.
Whether companies want to find new customers for brands already present in Japan or are looking to break into the export market, exhibiting at Vinexpo Tokyo is a highly effective way to make the initial contact directly – which is essential to the success of any business venture in Japan.
A tailor-made exhibition
The high demand for wine and spirits in Japan makes it a preferred destination for wine and spirits producers. Vinexpo Tokyo draws over 4,500 trade visitors from the key Japanese distribution channels thanks to a targeted promotion campaign aimed at top-level industry professionals. Visitors to the 2014 edition comprised 28% importers, 15% wholesalers, 19% Horeca buyers and 26% retailers. All key profiles for forging direct trading relationships in the Japanese market.
Turnkey format
Vinexpo Tokyo’s unique format makes life easy for exhibitors. The offer includes a turnkey stand package, personalised services and the opportunity to present brands under an importer’s banner. Companies opting for a stand in their own name simply need to choose the appropriate stand type and size to complete their registration.
Tokyo, a unique city
The Japanese capital has a rich, diverse culture and a vibrant business climate. The country’s wine and spirits market is sophisticated and the Japanese are exacting customers with refined tastes in food and an avid curiosity about the world.
A foodie paradise, Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than Paris, London and even New York! Wine and spirits have their place at the table. As well as traditional Japanese cuisine, you’ll find specialities from all over the Asia-Pacific region as well as the most innovative culinary creations, making Tokyo a favourite destination for chefs and food lovers. The city also boasts efficient transport and communications networks, making it easily accessible. And what’s more, Tokyo is renowned for being one of the safest and cleanest cities in the world.
