Suntory Holdings CEO: Younger consumers shift away from alcohol is likely permanent

Market Trends & Consumer Behavior - Consumers are drinking less hard spirits [2][3] - There's a shift towards ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages with less or no alcohol, targeting younger demographics like Gen Z and Millennials [2] - Premium spirits maintain strong sales, showing no significant decline [4] - The alcohol sector is experiencing rapid growth in the Selza and RTD segments [5] Product Innovation & R&D - Companies are leveraging R&D to launch new, value-added products in the RTD space [5] - The industry is launching new products that blend spirits with soft drinks [3] M&A and Industry Dynamics - Increased M&A activity is expected in the spirits and soft drink sectors [5] - Soft drink companies may seek to acquire spirits brands to expand into the mixed spirits and soft drink market [6]