Japan’s Kikkoman Corporation, a producer of naturally brewed soy sauce, launched Kikkoman India, a wholly-owned subsidiary that will expand its operations in India.
With this move, the company aims to become the market leader in the soy sauce and Asian sauces category, within the growing FMCG market in India, as it introduces its naturally brewed ‘Honjozo’ soy sauce to India.
Kikkoman Soy Sauce can be used for all cuisines, including Asian, Western, Japanese, and Indian dishes. It is brewed using ‘The Honjozo method’ with four ingredients, water, soybeans, wheat and salt.
The fermentation process lasts several months, and more than 300 different aroma components are generated within Kikkoman Soy Sauce, including hints of flowers, fruits, vanilla and coffee. This production process results in a mellow flavour, and distinctive bright reddish brown colour.
Harry Hakuei Kosato, Director and India Representative of Kikkoman India said, “India is one of the biggest emerging markets for global businesses and a key driver of growth in Asia. The launch of Kikkoman India will ensure seamless distribution of Kikkoman products exclusively created for the country. It is the first time that the Kikkoman Corporation has complete and direct control of all aspects of the business in India, where the emphasis shall be on marketing and sales. As our sales volumes in India are expected to grow rapidly to meet rising demand, we hope to shift production to India when the timing is right.”
The market entry strategy is to first reach consumers through the hospitality and restaurant sector, starting with a range of Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce. This will be followed by the launch of other soy sauce related seasonings for both the food service and consumer retail markets.
Representatives from Kikkoman India are meeting with industry executives across India to inform and educate them about the benefits of using Kikkoman’s naturally brewed soy sauce.
“Our main focus will be to inform and educate both industry professionals and consumers about the benefits of using our high quality and naturally brewed soy sauce that contains no preservatives or taste enhancers,” Kosato added.
Osamu Mogi, Director, Executive Corporate Officer, International Operations Division, Kikkoman Corporation, Japan said, “Our long-term commitment to India, one of the world’s largest and most promising markets, is for the next 100 years and beyond.”
