Sake Market Overview, 2023-28

Globally, the concept of sake has shifted from being mainly connected with traditional Japanese culture to being viewed as a premium and artisanal product. Craft sake brewers have arisen, focused on making high-quality sakes using conventional processes while experimenting with various flavours and styles to suit to a wide range of consumer tastes. Japan's sake exports have been gradually expanding, owing to rising foreign demand. The United States, where premium sakes have gained appeal, as well as nations in Europe such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, are major export markets for sake. Furthermore, sake consumption has increased in other Asian nations, notably China and South Korea. While Japan continues to be the greatest user and producer of sake, the business has grown significantly in other areas as well. With an increasing demand for premium and artisan sakes, the United States has emerged as one of the top importers of sake. The appeal of Japanese food and cultural experiences has led to an upsurge in sake consumption across Europe, notably in the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. Despite globally sake market expansion, there remain obstacles to overcome. These include customers' lack of knowledge and comprehension of sake outside of Japan, distribution issues in specific countries, and competition from other alcoholic beverages. Efforts are being undertaken to educate consumers about sake, as well as to promote its distinct attributes and cultural importance. Continued attempts to educate customers about sake, its manufacturing method, and its adaptability may result in greater interest and consumption. Promoting sake as part of cultural experiences and culinary tourism can also help to expand the market. With the development of e-commerce, sake manufacturers may directly approach customers and overcome distribution obstacles. Online platforms allow consumers to obtain a wider range of sake items.

According to the research report Global Sake Market Overview, 2023-28, the market is anticipated to cross USD 11.50 billion in size, increasing from USD 8.81 billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow at a 4.91% CAGR by 2023-28. There is a rising global interest in Japanese food, culture, and experiences, which has raised demand for sake. Consumers are increasingly interested in high-quality, handcrafted items such as sake. Craft brewers and speciality sake manufacturers may now cater to discriminating consumers thanks to the premiumization trend. Governments establish trade agreements and offer export assistance to sake producers, promoting worldwide sake distribution and sale. These agreements aid in the reduction of trade barriers, tariffs, and regulatory impediments to the export of sake to international markets. Governments may set aside cash for sake research and development. This assistance stimulates innovation, advances technical developments, and assists sake producers in improving their manufacturing methods, product quality, and sustainability. Japanese sake producers have aggressively extended their export markets, took advantage of trade accords and promoted sake as a distinct Japanese product. Sake makers are experimenting with novel flavours, styles, and brewing procedures in order to accommodate to a wide range of consumer tastes. Flavoured sakes, effervescent sakes, and low-alcohol choices are also being developed. Premium and luxury sakes, including aged sakes and limited-edition releases, are becoming increasingly popular among customers looking for one-of-a-kind and exclusive experiences. The worldwide sake industry is expanding outside conventional markets, allowing sake manufacturers to reach new geographies and customer bases. Multiple occasions are held worldwide to promote and demonstrate sake in the global market. These events bring together sake producers, distributors, aficionados, and customers to learn about and taste various types of sake. Sake Fairs are held in nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany to display a diverse selection of sake goods. Consumers can attend these events to sample various sakes, learn about the brewing process, and engage with sake experts and producers. Some sake breweries in Japan and other countries provide brewery tours to tourists to give them a hands-on experience with the sake-making process. These excursions provide attendees with the opportunity to experience the artistry involved in sake production and frequently include tastings and informative seminars.

Japan is the world's greatest producer and user of sake, accounting for the vast bulk of sake consumption. Sake is profoundly embedded in Japanese culture and is frequently consumed during a variety of traditional rituals, festivals, and social events. The Japanese market provides a vast range of sake varieties, grades, and flavours to suit to a wide range of consumer tastes. Sake breweries in Japan range from large-scale to tiny, family-owned businesses that have been in operation for generations. Along with the appeal of Japanese food and cultural experiences, Europe, notably the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, has seen an increase in interest in sake. Premium sakes, limited editions, and speciality sakes from various regions of Japan are available in the European market. Sake sommeliers and educators in Europe play an important role in promoting sake education and organising sake-related activities. Sake consumption is increasing in Asian nations like as China, South Korea, and Singapore. The rising middle class in China, increased interest in Japanese culture, and an increase in the number of Japanese restaurants have all contributed to the rise of the sake market. Because of its closeness to Japan and the impact of Korean pop culture, South Korea has seen a spike in sake popularity. Sake has acquired appeal in various nations, including Canada, Brazil, Mexico, and Southeast Asian countries, owing to the popularity of Japanese cuisine and cultural interactions. Importers and distributors play an important role in introducing and marketing sake to local customers in these locations.

Junmai sake is frequently connected with authentic Japanese sake producing processes. It's produced entirely of rice, water, yeast, and koji (a fermentation starter), with no added ingredients like distilled alcohol. Consumers looking for an authentic sake experience will appreciate the purity and respect to traditional brewing processes. Junmai sake has a full-bodied, strong flavour character. It frequently has rich and nuanced fragrances with a strong rice flavour. The flavour profile and acidity of Junmai sake make it ideal for meal pairing. It may be used to compliment a variety of cuisines and meals, including Japanese, Western, and fusion recipes. Junmai sake labelling requirements necessitate openness and clear information of the manner of manufacture. Consumers looking for authentic and high-quality items may clearly recognise Junmai sake by its labelling, increasing their trust in the product's legitimacy. The people between the age group of 40-60 are consuming sake the most in global market of sake. The age group between 40 to 60 may have a greater inclination to explore and appreciate the authenticity and cultural significance of sake. As people reach their forties and beyond, health and fitness become increasingly essential factors. Sake has a lower alcohol level than other spirits, making it a potentially more enticing option for individuals who wish to consume alcohol in moderation. Sake is also gluten-free, which may appeal to people who have dietary limitations or preferences.

Low-priced sake is more accessible and affordable for a wider range of consumers. Lower-priced options make sake more approachable and encourage consumers to try and explore different sake varieties without a significant financial commitment. Sake is eaten in bigger quantities or volumes in different cultures and social circumstances. This is especially evident at izakayas (Japanese-style bars) or other casual drinking establishments where the emphasis is on socialising and drinking many rounds. Lower-cost’s sake is frequently used in cuisine, such as marinades, sauces, and traditional Japanese foods. Sake enhances flavour and aids in the tenderization of foods. Low-cost sake is frequently used as an introduction to the sake market for consumers who are unfamiliar with sake or are trying it for the first time. In the worldwide sake market, commercial uses of sake, such as in the food and beverage sector, have been widely consumed. Sake is becoming increasingly popular as a component in mixology and cocktail making. Its distinct flavour profile, which ranges from light and flowery to deep and savoury, offers it an adaptable foundation for creating imaginative and delicious cocktails. Sake's business applications include the global export market. Sake manufacturers actively market their goods for usage in the culinary and beverage industries across the world. This involves selling sake to restaurants, bars, liquor stores, and wholesalers, guaranteeing a consistent demand for sake outside of Japan.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Regions covered in the report:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East & Africa

Aspects covered in this report

• Global Sake market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise Sake market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Types

• Junmai
• Ordinary sake
• Honjozo
• Junmai Ginjo
• Ginjo
• Junmai Daiginjo

By Age Group

• 40-60 Years Old
• 20-40 Years Old
• Above 60 Years Old

By price Range

• Low
• Premium
• Medium

By Application

• Commercial Use
• Home Use

By Distribution Channel

• On-trade
• Off-trade

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analysing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Sake industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.