CHOYA UMESHU CO., LTD.: Japan’s Leading Umeshu Producer
Founded in 1914 and headquartered in Habikino, Osaka, CHOYA UMESHU CO., LTD. is the world’s leading producer of umeshu, a traditional Japanese plum liqueur. With over a century of expertise in ume (Japanese plum) fermentation and aging, CHOYA has pioneered the global recognition of umeshu, making it a staple in premium alcoholic beverages worldwide.
Core Business and Specialization
CHOYA specializes in umeshu production, crafting high-quality Japanese plum liqueurs using 100% natural ume fruits, without artificial additives or preservatives. The company adheres to traditional aging techniques, ensuring deep, complex flavors in every bottle.
Product Portfolio
CHOYA offers a diverse range of umeshu products, categorized as follows:
-
The CHOYA Premium Series:
- The CHOYA Extra Years (aged for several years for a deep, rich taste)
- The CHOYA Extra Shiso (infused with red shiso leaves for a herbal aroma)
- The CHOYA Royal Honey (sweetened with natural honey)
-
Classic CHOYA Series:
- CHOYA Umeshu Kishu (made with 100% Kishu Nanko ume, the highest-quality variety)
- CHOYA Sarari to Shita Umeshu (a light umeshu with lower viscosity for easy drinking)
-
Non-Alcoholic Series:
- Yowanai Umesshu (a non-alcoholic umeshu soda for health-conscious consumers)
Market Presence and Global Reach
CHOYA UMESHU is a market leader in Japan, accounting for over 75% of the domestic umeshu market share. The company has successfully expanded into over 60 countries, catering to a growing demand for authentic Japanese beverages in Europe, North America, and Asia.
- Annual Export Volume: Over 10 million bottles shipped internationally.
- Distribution Channels: Available in premium liquor stores, supermarkets, duty-free shops, and online platforms such as Amazon, Rakuten, and Shopee.
Competitive Edge and Key Differentiators
- Traditional Aging Process – CHOYA’s umeshu is aged in oak barrels or stainless-steel tanks for up to 5 years, developing complex, mellow flavors.
- High-Quality Ume Selection – CHOYA exclusively uses 100% Kishu Nanko ume, a protected geographical indication (GI) product known for its superior flavor and aroma.
- No Artificial Additives – Unlike many commercial brands, CHOYA’s umeshu contains no artificial colors, preservatives, or flavor enhancers.
- Global Recognition and Awards – CHOYA’s umeshu has won multiple international spirits awards, solidifying its status as a premium liqueur.
Certifications and Compliance
CHOYA ensures strict quality control and compliance with international food safety standards, including:
- ISO 22000 Certification – International food safety management.
- HACCP Certification – Ensuring product safety throughout production.
- Protected Geographical Indication (GI) – Recognized for using 100% Kishu Nanko ume.
Financial Performance and Shipment Data
- Annual Revenue: Estimated at $100 million+, driven by strong domestic and international sales.
- Shipment Records:
- Japan Domestic Sales: Over 20 million bottles sold annually.
- International Markets: More than 10 million bottles exported each year.
- Market Growth: CHOYA has experienced an 8% annual increase in global sales, reflecting the rising demand for premium umeshu.
Customer Testimonials and Brand Reputation
CHOYA enjoys strong consumer loyalty, with numerous positive reviews highlighting its authentic flavor, premium quality, and smooth taste:
- “This is the smoothest umeshu I’ve ever had. The perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.” – Verified Amazon Customer
- “CHOYA’s Extra Years umeshu is absolutely fantastic. A must-have for umeshu lovers.” – Japanese Beverage Enthusiast Blog
- “As a bartender, I highly recommend CHOYA for making umeshu cocktails. It’s unmatched in quality.” – International Spirits Review
Major Achievements and Industry Recognition
- Winner of the Monde Selection Gold Award for multiple years, recognizing superior product quality.
- Ranked No. 1 Umeshu Brand in Japan, with over 75% market share.
- Officially recognized under Japan’s Protected Geographical Indication (GI) system for its exclusive use of Kishu Nanko ume.
- Featured in Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels worldwide as a premium Japanese liqueur.
Future Growth and Expansion Plans
CHOYA continues to innovate and expand its presence in the global premium spirits market, with key initiatives including:
- New product development: Launching low-alcohol and craft umeshu varieties to appeal to modern consumers.
- Global expansion: Strengthening distribution in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia through strategic partnerships.
- Sustainable practices: Investing in eco-friendly packaging and supporting organic ume farming.
With over 100 years of expertise, CHOYA remains the world’s most trusted umeshu brand, blending Japanese tradition with global innovation to bring the finest ume liqueur to consumers worldwide.
