全球最大酿酒商CEO：奶头乐让年轻人减少酒精消费

Core Viewpoint - The rise of digital entertainment platforms such as gaming, streaming, and social media is significantly impacting alcohol consumption among younger generations, overshadowing health concerns related to drinking [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Trends - In 2023, global alcohol sales volume decreased by 1%, while sales revenue increased by 2%, indicating a shift towards higher-quality premium beverages despite reduced consumption [2]. - The Asahi Group views the changing social consumption trends as an opportunity, targeting previously overlooked demographics such as bloggers, gamers, and social media influencers to promote high-end alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages [2][3]. - The World Health Organization recommends that all alcohol products carry health warning labels similar to those on tobacco products, with Ireland set to implement this measure starting next year [2]. Group 2: Company Insights - Asahi Group's CEO, Atsushi Katsuki, believes that alcohol is not the "next tobacco product," emphasizing that unlike smoking, moderate drinking can have health benefits [3][4]. - The company has not observed any negative impact on alcohol sales from the rising popularity of weight loss medications like Ozempic, suggesting that improved health may lead to increased moderate drinking among those previously advised against it [4]. - Asahi Group's stock recently reached an all-time high, benefiting from inflation trends in Japan and the company's new shareholder return policy following debt reduction [4][5]. Group 3: Market Expansion - Despite challenges such as tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, Asahi Group remains optimistic about entering the U.S. market, which is currently a significant gap in its operations [5].