Beverage giant Coca-Cola Co. plans to launch a low-alcohol canned drink in Japan in 2018, a move that could mark the company's first foray into alcoholic beverages since it was established over a century ago.
In an interview posted on the company's website, Coca-Cola Japan President Jorge Garduño said they are looking to enter a category known in the country as Chu-Hi, which includes alcopop products made with a distilled beverage called shochu, sparkling water and flavoring.
Garduño said the company is looking to explore opportunities outside its core areas. He did not disclose a launch date.
"It makes sense to give this a try in our market," Garduño said. "But I don't think people around the world should expect to see this kind of thing from Coca-Cola. While many markets are becoming more like Japan, I think the culture here is still very unique and special, so many products that are born here will stay here."
