Abashiri Beer Co., Ltd.
Abashiri Beer Co., Ltd. is a craft beer brewing company based in Abashiri City, Hokkaido, Japan, and is attracting attention both domestically and internationally for developing unique beers that utilize local specialties. Established in 1998, we take advantage of the rich natural environment facing the Sea of Okhotsk to produce unique beers using local water sources and specialty products.
Business content and mission
Abashiri Beer's beers are characterized by a unique product range that combines traditional brewing techniques with regional characteristics. In particular, ``Drift Ice Draft,'' a blue beer made from drift ice from the Sea of Okhotsk, has become a hot topic not only in Japan but also among craft beer lovers around the world.
Main business areas
- Brewing and sales of craft beer
- Developing unique beers that utilize regional specialties
- Export to domestic and foreign markets
- Original brand development for the restaurant industry
Product lineup
Abashiri Beer develops unique products that are particular about beer color and ingredients.
Main products
- Drift Ice Draft – Japan's first blue beer. Made with drift ice from the Sea of Okhotsk.
- Shiretoko Draft – Green beer. Image of the great nature of Shiretoko.
- Cherry Drops – Red beer. Made with cherries from Hokkaido.
- Abashiri Premium Beer – A classic beer made with high quality malt.
- Kyougoku no Kuro – A stout-type dark beer.
- Abashiri White Ale – A white beer with a fruity taste.
- Abashiri Golden Ale – A well-balanced golden beer.
- Abashiri Artisan Ale – Craft beer with a rich aroma.
Product Features
- Blue beer "Drift Ice Draft" uses natural water from the Sea of Okhotsk and special spirulina pigment to achieve a beautiful blue color.
- Flavored beers that utilize local ingredients (cherries, wheat, herbs, etc.).
- We offer new seasonal flavors through the sale of limited brewed beer.
Market size and sales
- Annual production: Approximately 120,000 liters
- Domestic distribution: Sold at craft beer specialty stores, restaurants, and tourist facilities throughout Japan.
- Export Market: Expand to American, European and Asian markets.
- Sales: Approximately 300 million yen (estimated)
- Main customers: Liquor stores, major department stores, craft beer specialty shops.
Competitive Advantage (USP)
- A brewery that produces the only "blue beer" in Japan.
- Use ingredients from Hokkaido to promote local production and local consumption.
- Promote the charms of Hokkaido through cooperation with the tourism industry.
- Differentiate in the domestic and international craft beer market with uniquely colored beer.
Shipping/Sales Status
- Domestic Market: Sold at more than 400 stores in Japan.
- Overseas Market: Export mainly to America, Europe, and East Asia.
- Online sales: Sold via EC site in Japan.
Target market
- Craft Beer Enthusiast: Consumers looking for unique flavors and designs.
- Tourists: Visitors who enjoy local beer as part of Hokkaido tourism.
- Food and Beverage Industry: Commercial markets such as bars, restaurants, and hotels.
Equipment/Production Capacity
- Brewery location: Abashiri City, Hokkaido
- Annual production capacity: Approximately 120,000 liters
- Main equipment:
- Fermentation tanks (5000L) x 5
- Beer filling line (automatic filling machine)
- Filtration system using local spring water
Certification/Quality Control
- Obtained HACCP certification and thorough quality control.
- Hokkaido Food Industry Certification ensures a safe manufacturing environment.
- Local Beer Award Winner (Win multiple awards).
Customer Testimonials
"I was surprised by the blue color of the Drift Ice Draft! It has a fruity taste and is easy to drink."
— Craft Beer Enthusiast
"Great as a souvenir from your trip to Hokkaido! I especially liked the cherry blossom droplets."
— Tourist
Major achievements/awards
- 2010: "Drift Ice Draft" became a hot topic both domestically and internationally, with cumulative sales exceeding 1 million units.
- 2015: "Shiretoko Draft" won the Japan Beer Grand Prix.
- 2021: Annual production reaches 120,000 liters.
- 2023: Expand the export market by improving brand recognition in the craft beer industry.
Abashiri Beer will continue to develop unique products and aim to expand overseas markets while establishing a position in the Japanese craft beer market.
