Following the launch of Suntory Oceania’s multi-beverage business in July 2025, on 19 November the Japanese drinks giant brought its ambition to life at RITUALS, an immersive experience celebrating the power of everyday drinking moments and sharing strategic insights.
More than 200 industry leaders came together for an insightful and inspiring program of presentations and panels from demographer Bernard Salt, and Suntory’s own international and local experts, with exclusive tasting events with Shinji Fukuyo, House of Suntory’s fifth generation Chief Blender, and Dr Blake Layfield, Master Distiller, Maker’s Mark.
Global VP of Insights and Analytics
At its heart was the powerful idea: when brands become part of life’s everyday moments, they are elevated and integrated into consumers’ lives.
Jing Mertoglu, Suntory Global Spirit’s Global VP of Insights and Analytics shared at the event, “Rituals are more than habits, they’re emotional anchors. In a world of overwhelming choice, rituals allow brands to cut through the noise and find an enduring connection.”
“RITUALS is a global first for Suntory – a powerful way to demonstrate how we build brands that leave a lasting impact,” said Brad Erceg, Chief Commercial Officer. “In a region as diverse and dynamic as Oceania, rituals drive relevance and meaningful category growth.”
Non-alcohol is a clear growth engine for the multi-beverage leader with the sector now accounting for 86 per cent of Australian beverage consumption. Locally, the ANZ non-alcohol ready-to-drink (NARTD) category is worth $19.5 billion and is expected to reach $28.7 billion by 2028, driven by energy drinks, carbonated soft drinks, water, juice, sports drinks and RTD coffee.
With V Energy holding the top spot in Australia’s energy drink category and Suntory BOSS Coffee leading RTD coffee, Suntory Oceania is uniquely positioned to drive growth in these core categories.
Suntory Oceania
“Our new $400 million Swanbank facility in Queensland gives us the agility to bring ideas to market faster and at scale, unlocking new possibilities for consumer-led innovation and convenience,” said Erceg.
“With our rich East meets West portfolio, we will pioneer new beverage experiences, drawing on our commitment to quality, craftsmanship and innovation,” he said.
Momentum Across the Region
Six months on from the Australian launch, Suntory Oceania’s multi-beverage operations will go live in New Zealand on 1 January 2026. Building on its 125-year-old legacy, Suntory Oceania is disrupting the market as the region’s newest player, drawing on its impressive portfolio from Australia, New Zealand, North America, Europe and Japan.
“More than ever before, we have the power to fully leverage Suntory’s global network and international capabilities, alongside our own operations,” said Dai Minato, CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania.
“RITUALS brings together global and local experts to offer an expanded perspective on new, untapped trends and the future of the category. Setting the pace for the future, RITUALS demonstrates our commitment to our consumers, customers and to pioneer new beverage experiences, inspired by innovation and craftsmanship.”
For more information visit suntoryoceania.com or stay up to date with the latest Suntory Oceania news on LinkedIn.
