Europe Sake Market Outlook, 2028

Sake has gained significant popularity in Europe as consumers become more curious about exploring diverse and unique beverages. The growing trend of fusion cuisine, which blends Japanese flavours with local ingredients, has also contributed to the rise of sake's popularity in Europe. Furthermore, the increase in tourism between Europe and Japan has played a role in driving the sake market. European travellers visiting Japan often have the opportunity to experience sake culture firsthand, leading to a greater appreciation and interest in sake upon returning to their home countries. Moreover, as consumers become more health-conscious, they seek out beverages that offer perceived health benefits and align with their wellness goals. Sake, when consumed in moderation, is often seen as a healthier alternative to other alcoholic beverages due to its lower alcohol content, lack of sulfites, and potential antioxidant properties. The growing interest in health and wellness has also influenced the sake market in Europe. Sake is perceived as a natural and cleaner alternative to other alcoholic beverages, as it typically lacks additives and preservatives. Additionally, sake's gluten-free and low-sulphite nature aligns with the dietary preferences and restrictions of health-conscious consumers. In addition, celebrity chefs, sommeliers, and influencers have played a role in promoting sake in Europe. Their endorsements and recommendations have helped generate interest and curiosity among their followers, contributing to the overall visibility and acceptance of sake in the mainstream culinary and beverage scene. According to the research report, “Europe Sake Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to add more than USD 4.5 Billion from 2023 to 2028. Educational initiatives focused on sake are becoming more prevalent in Europe. Sake schools, workshops, and tasting events are organised to educate consumers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts about the various types of sake, brewing processes, and flavour profiles. These educational opportunities enhance consumers' understanding and appreciation of sake, further driving its popularity. Furthermore, sake is gaining recognition as a base spirit in mixology and craft cocktails across Europe. Bartenders and mixologists are experimenting with sake as a versatile ingredient, using it in innovative cocktails and infusions. Sake's distinct flavour profiles and ability to bring a unique twist to traditional cocktail recipes contribute to its popularity in the craft cocktail scene. Moreover, sustainability practises are increasingly important in the European sake market. Sake producers are adopting environmentally friendly measures such as organic rice cultivation, water conservation, and renewable energy sources. Consumers are attracted to sake brands that prioritise sustainable practises, contributing to the overall growth of sustainable and eco-friendly sake options in Europe. In addition, sake and tea pairings are becoming popular in Europe, as both beverages share similar characteristics such as complexity, aroma, and flavour profiles. Sake and tea pairing events and tastings are organised to showcase the harmonious combination of these two traditional beverages, creating a unique sensory experience for consumers.

The United Kingdom Sake has experienced significant growth in popularity in recent years. More people are discovering and appreciating sake as a unique and versatile beverage. Some traditional English pubs have started to offer sake alongside their usual beer and spirits selection. This inclusion of sake reflects the growing interest and demand for diverse beverage options among pub-goers. Moreover, food festivals in the United Kingdom often feature sake as part of their beverage offerings. These festivals celebrate diverse cuisines and provide attendees with the opportunity to experience different sake styles alongside a variety of dishes. In addition, sake has made its way into Michelin-starred restaurants in the United Kingdom, where it is recognised as a sophisticated and refined beverage choice. Sake's ability to complement and enhance the flavours of gourmet dishes has contributed to its presence in high-end dining establishments. In addition, sake has made its way into Michelin-starred restaurants in the United Kingdom, where it is recognised as a sophisticated and refined beverage choice. Sake's ability to complement and enhance the flavours of gourmet dishes has contributed to its presence in high-end dining establishments. Furthermore, some German breweries are experimenting with sake-inspired beers, combining elements of traditional sake brewing with German beer-making techniques. These hybrid beverages offer a bridge between the familiar flavours of beer and the distinct characteristics of sake, appealing to beer enthusiasts who are curious about sake. Ordinary sake is often considered an entry-level sake category that is accessible and affordable for consumers in Europe. Its lower price point compared to premium varieties makes it a popular choice for those who are new to sake or seeking a more casual drinking experience. While ordinary sake may be considered "everyday" sake, it still undergoes the traditional sake brewing process. The use of quality rice, water, and koji mould, along with fermentation and ageing, contribute to the authentic and traditional nature of ordinary sake. Furthermore, ordinary sake serves as an entry point for Europeans to delve into the rich and fascinating world of sake culture. As consumers explore ordinary sake, they learn about its history, brewing techniques, and cultural significance, deepening their appreciation for the beverage. In addition, Junmai sake's flavour profile and acidity make it a versatile companion for various cuisines. It pairs well with a wide range of European dishes, including seafood, grilled meats, cheese, and charcuterie. European consumers appreciate its ability to enhance and complement different flavours in their meals. Furthermore, Junmai sake labels often feature artistic designs that reflect the aesthetics and cultural elements of Japan. European consumers are drawn to the visually appealing labels, which can convey the quality, craftsmanship, and story behind the Junmai sake. Sakes in the medium price range in Europe offer a balance between affordability and quality. Furthermore, they may use a combination of premium rice varieties and brewing techniques to create sakes with more complexity and depth compared to those in the low price range. Moreover, sakes in this range cater to a range of preferences, appealing to both novice sake drinkers and those seeking higher-quality options without the premium price tag. For instance, some well-known brands that offer sakes in the medium price range in Europe include Hiro, Sho Chiku Bai, and Takara. These brands have a diverse selection of sakes and are readily available in various retail outlets. In addition, sakes in the premium price range in Europe are crafted with higher-quality ingredients, traditional brewing methods, and meticulous craftsmanship. Furthermore, some notable premium sake brands in Europe include Dassai, Kubota, and Hakkaisan. These brands are known for their commitment to quality and have a strong reputation among sake enthusiasts. In addition, there is a growing trend of do-it-yourself (DIY) culinary experiences and food pairings. Many consumers are interested in exploring different food and drink combinations, including pairing sake with a wide range of cuisines beyond Japanese dishes. This trend encourages consumers to purchase sake for home use and experiment with different flavor combinations.

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Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

The on-trade distribution channel refers to the sale of sake in establishments where it is consumed on-site, such as restaurants, bars, hotels, and other food and beverage outlets. Furthermore, many Japanese and Asian-themed restaurants in Europe feature sake on their menus, offering a variety of sake styles and brands to complement their cuisine. Moreover, some notable establishments in Europe that have a strong focus on sake include Umu (London), Zuma (multiple locations), Sake No Hana (London), and Sushisamba (London, Amsterdam, and London). In addition, the off-trade distribution channel refers to the sale of sake in retail outlets for consumers to purchase and consume at home. Furthermore, some well-known retail outlets in Europe that offer a diverse range of sake include Hedonism Wines (London), Japan Centre (London), La Cave à Saké (Paris), and Vinmonopolet (Norway's state-owned wine and spirits retailer). Considered in this report • Geography: Europe • Historic year: 2017 • Base year: 2022 • Estimated year: 2023 • Forecast year: 2028 Countries covered in the report: • United Kingdom • Germany • France • Italy • Spain • Russia

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Aspects covered in this report • Europe Sake market with its value and forecast along with its segments • 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, analyzing 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 ready 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.