The food and beverage manufacturing industry plays a crucial role in consumers' lives. In Japan, with its long history and diverse food culture, the significance of this industry is particularly prominent. Companies in this sector are constantly developing new products, influenced by an increasing focus on health, environmental issues, and technological advancements. These changes not only bring new business opportunities but also drive the transformation of the entire industry.
In this article, we aim to provide you with the most accurate career guide of Japan's food and beverage manufacturing industry. We will delve into the market trends and industry structure of the food and beverage manufacturing sector, its key companies, and the skills required for various job roles. Furthermore, it focuses on the career paths within the industry and strategic approaches for students from foreign universities to succeed in Japanese companies.
1. Fundamental Knowledge of the Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry
1.1 Industry Overview and Market Trends
Japan’s food and beverage manufacturing industry has grown against the backdrop of a long history and rich food culture. As consumer needs diversify and the population ages, coupled with a rising interest in health and sustainability, the industry continues to embrace new trends and undergo changes. Below, we outline the macroeconomic trends and their impacts on the industry.
Population Decline and Its Market Impact: Japan is experiencing a significant population decline due to aging and low birth rates. According to the 2023 population estimates, the total population decreased by 0.48% from the previous year, with a continuing downward trend expected. This demographic shift has a profound impact on the food and beverage market, particularly as the shrinking consumer base implies a reduction in market size, making domestic growth challenging. As a result, many companies are intensifying their global market expansion efforts to reach new consumer segments.
The Necessity and Strategies for Global Expansion: Along with the domestic market contraction and maturation from an aging population, food and beverage manufacturers are accelerating their overseas expansion. Entry into Asian and emerging markets compensates for the shrinking domestic market and is a focal strategy. Success in foreign markets requires understanding regional consumer needs and preferences, with high-quality product development and marketing strategies being key to this success.
Rising Health Consciousness: There is an increasing demand for healthier foods with less sugar and fat, organic ingredients, and functional foods. Fermented and plant-based foods are garnering particular attention, with many companies launching products that cater to these trends.
Sustainability and Environmental Consideration: Efforts towards sustainable resource use and reducing food waste are accelerating. The adoption of alternative packaging materials with less environmental impact and revising production processes to reduce carbon footprints are also progressing, demanding sustainable management across the industry.
Digital Transformation (DX): The introduction of digital technologies enables new marketing and product development in the food and beverage industry. Utilizing AI for consumer analysis and demand forecasting based on extensive purchasing data allows for more targeted product and service offerings. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce in response to online purchasing behaviors significantly impacts the industry.
1.2 The Appeal of Working in Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Working in the food and beverage manufacturing industry offers a rewarding career as it directly affects consumers' lives. Opportunities abound to engage in all stages of product development and market introduction, utilizing creative thinking and strategic problem-solving skills. The direct experience of market acceptance of products is also a major draw.
Moreover, the industry offers numerous opportunities to address social issues such as environmental protection and health promotion. Through sustainable production and the development of nutritionally rich products, employees can contribute to improving the quality of consumers' lives. As such, careers in food and beverage manufacturing provide a fulfilling path, leveraging expertise while creating social value.
1.3 Key Companies and Positions in the Industry
Numerous well-recognized companies operate within Japan's food and beverage manufacturing sector. Here are a few examples:
Suntory Holdings Ltd.: A leading company in the beverage sector in Japan, engaging in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The company is committed to environmental protection, focusing on water resource conservation and sustainable initiatives.
Kirin Holdings Company, Limited: Continues to grow in beverages, including beer, and branches into food and pharmaceuticals, particularly expanding its market share in the health beverage sector both domestically and internationally.
Ajinomoto Co., Inc.: Innovates in health and nutrition, with a broad product range domestically and internationally. The company is especially strong in the condiment sector, actively pushing for product development targeted at health-conscious consumers.
Nissin Foods Holdings Co., Ltd.: A leader in the instant noodle market with strong brand power both in Japan and abroad. The company is committed to innovation, focusing on developing various flavors and health-oriented products.
Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd.: Produces a wide range of food products including dairy, confectionery, and nutritional products, particularly noted for its high market share in dairy products. The company’s attractive product lineup focuses on health and beauty.
Kikkoman Corporation: A representative soy sauce manufacturer in Japan, holding a significant share domestically and internationally. Kikkoman not only produces soy sauce but also a wide range of seasonings, processed foods, and beverages, playing a key role in spreading Japanese food culture globally.
In these companies, various positions exist, each demanding different skills:
Product Development Roles: Responsible for planning and developing new products that reflect consumer needs. Skills in market research, trend analysis, and quality control are necessary, working in collaboration with research roles to plan and develop products that prioritize consumer value and safety.
Sales Roles: Ensure the distribution of company products and expand sales channels. Skills in building and negotiating relationships with customers (such as retailers and restaurants) are required, along with coordination with marketing departments to develop sales strategies.
Marketing Roles: Plan and execute promotional and advertising strategies to enhance product recognition among consumers. This involves analyzing consumer data, monitoring competitor activities, and developing brand strategies.
Research Roles: Conduct fundamental research on new materials and technologies to enhance the company's competitiveness. Skills in nutrition, food science, and the ability to plan and conduct experiments contribute to the development of innovative materials and technologies.
2. Skills and Qualities Required in Japan's Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry
2.1 Specialized Skills Required by Job Role
In Japan's food and beverage manufacturing industry, specialized skills are required for each job role. Here, we detail the necessary skills for major roles.
Product Development Roles:
Market Research and Analysis Skills: The ability to conduct quantitative and qualitative research and analysis of market trends and competitor products is crucial. These skills are essential for reflecting consumer needs in new product planning.
Creativity: Constant innovation and the ability to think of new ideas and novel product concepts are required. The capacity to lead development from prototype to final product is highly valued.
Collaboration Skills: As collaboration with quality control, research, and marketing departments is necessary, the ability to smoothly coordinate with other departments is also important.
Sales Roles:
Negotiation and Communication Skills: High negotiation skills are necessary for building relationships with clients and smoothly conducting business deals. Effective communication skills are needed to accurately grasp customer needs and make appropriate proposals.
Marketing Knowledge: Basic marketing knowledge is necessary to accurately convey the unique features and advantages of products to customers. Understanding market trends and deepening relationships with customers supports effective sales activities.
Teamwork and Flexibility: As collaboration with internal marketing and logistics departments is essential, a team-oriented mindset and the ability to respond flexibly are important.
Marketing Roles:
Data Analysis Skills: Skills in analyzing consumer purchasing data and market trends are required to design optimal promotional strategies.
Branding Abilities: The ability to plan messages and content that resonate with the target demographic is crucial for maximizing brand value.
Creative Thinking: Creative approaches are necessary to develop attractive plans for advertising and social media campaigns.
Research Roles:
Expert Knowledge and Technical Skills: Specialized knowledge in food science, nutrition, biotechnology, etc., is necessary, and these are applied in the development of new materials and effective production technologies.
Research Planning and Execution: The ability to plan research projects, design experiments, and collect accurate data is required.
Analytical Skills: High analytical skills are necessary to analyze and interpret data obtained from research and translate it into practical applications.
2.2 Qualities Commonly Required Across Roles
There are several qualities universally required across all roles in the food and beverage manufacturing industry, which are particularly important for career development in Japanese companies.
Insight: An understanding of consumer preferences and behaviors and the ability to plan and provide products and services from a consumer perspective are necessary. The ability to adapt flexibly to market changes and provide new value to consumers is crucial.
Flexibility and Adaptability: The food industry frequently undergoes changes in trends and regulations, so the ability to adapt flexibly to new changes is required. Particularly when dealing with consumer trends and regulations abroad, a flexible perspective that considers cultural differences is important.
Teamwork and Communication: As interdepartmental collaboration is central to operations, teamwork is essential for achieving goals in cooperation with other departments.
Commitment to Quality: In the food industry, safety and quality are top priorities, and a high standard of quality for products and services is expected, along with a commitment to maintaining these standards.
Global Perspective: Especially for major Japanese food and beverage manufacturers, as the domestic market matures, expanding into foreign markets becomes a part of growth strategies. The ability to understand diverse cultures and needs and to act with a global perspective is required.
Grit: In market research, extensive data collection and detailed analysis are required. Although it can be time-consuming and may seem mundane at first glance, such efforts are essential for devising strategies based on accurate information. Attention to detail and the willingness to delve deeply into even small data points are necessary to achieve goals.
2.3 Strengths International Students Can Leverage in the Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry
International students bring unique strengths to the food and beverage manufacturing industry in Japan, which are outlined below:
Multicultural Understanding: This strength is developed through living and studying abroad. A deepened understanding of consumers from various cultural backgrounds can distinguish one from others in the industry.
Cross-Cultural Adaptability: Gained through experiences of living within different cultures, this strength allows individuals to flexibly respond to the needs of a global market.
Bilingual (Multilingual) Abilities: The ability to communicate in Japanese, their native language, and often English, is a significant strength. Being multilingual facilitates bridging the gap with consumers in international markets and smooth cooperation with multinational teams, playing a vital role in a company's global strategy.
3. Selection Process for Japan's Food and Beverage Manufacturers
The selection process in the food and beverage manufacturing industry involves several common steps similar to other industries, each requiring different content and skills. Especially in Japanese companies, specific processes and evaluation criteria exist, making preparation crucial. The selection process for international students aiming to build a career in this industry is as follows:
University Life
Industry Research
Entry Sheet Submission
Aptitude Tests
Interviews
Internships
Final Interview → Job Offer
We will introduce helpful tips on how to approach each step.
3.1 University Life (From August of Freshman Year to Entry Submission)
Overview: In the food and beverage industry, depending on the job, scientific knowledge, nutrition, and production technology are required. Therefore, belonging to a relevant faculty or research lab during university life is advantageous. Participation in related extracurricular activities and taking courses in food science and nutrition are recommended. Teamwork and communication skills are also emphasized, making active participation in interdisciplinary projects and group activities beneficial.
Tips: Actively participating in product development contests and research presentations can deepen your expertise and provide practical industry experience. Taking courses in nutrition and food science can also enhance your expertise, which can be a strong point during interviews and on entry sheets.
3.2 Industry Research (From June of Sophomore Year to Entry Submission)
Overview: Understanding the latest trends and developments in the food and beverage industry can be beneficial for choosing companies and discussing topics in interviews. Paying attention to market changes driven by increasing sustainability and health consciousness is crucial. Attending company presentations and employee visits can also provide firsthand insights.
Tips: Grasping trends in sustainability and health-oriented products and understanding product development and market strategies based on these can provide valuable discussion points for interviews. Utilizing tools like Jelper Club or LinkedIn can efficiently arrange employee visits, further deepening your industry understanding.
3.3 Entry Sheet Submission (From May of Junior Year to Application Deadline)
Overview: In your self-promotion and motivation sections, it's important not only to list skills and experiences but to specifically demonstrate how your personal experiences and background can help you excel in the food and beverage industry and how your strengths match the industry and company culture.
Actual Entry Sheet Questions Example:
Suntory, Graduates of 2025, Common Format for All Departments:
Describe five episodes that have shaped you.
Express what you want to achieve at Suntory utilizing your motivations and strengths.
Describe an experience of "challenge" or "creation" in your life — Suntory values the spirit of "give it a try" and has been creating new values by taking on various challenges. We look forward to your entry sheets that reflect this spirit. Feel free to use any format, including photos, graphs, illustrations, etc. Please also share details of your efforts, innovations, and the process, not just the outcomes.
Nissin Foods, Marketing Role, Graduates of 2026:
Nissin Food Group cherishes the philosophy "Be Creative!". Please share an episode that symbolizes your creativity. (1 to 300 characters)
Ajinomoto, Main Selection, Graduates of 2025:
Describe an experience where you moved someone's heart, changed their behavior, and created results.
Write about the difficulties or challenges you faced during the process of addressing the above theme and what you did to overcome these challenges.
What you want to achieve at Ajinomoto.
Kirin Holdings, Technical Research Role, Graduates of 2025:
Provide an overview of your current research and its societal significance. (within 600 characters)
Describe the most challenging technical issue you faced in your research and how you overcame it. (within 500 characters)
Explain the operations at Kirin Group that interest you and what you would like to challenge. (within 400 characters)
House Foods, Research Role, Graduates of 2025:
Explain why you want to work at House Foods and what you want to challenge there. (within 300 characters)
Share two experiences during your student life where you demonstrated your unique character and took on challenges. (within 300 characters)
Write about your interest, concerns, or episodes related to "food". (within 300 characters)
Tips: Have multiple people review your entry sheet to incorporate objective opinions. Creating a professional and clear document is essential.
3.4 Aptitude Tests (From June of Junior Year to Aptitude Test Deadline)
Overview: In the food and beverage manufacturing industry, aptitude tests such as SPI or C-GAB are often required. While many tests can be taken online, some require attendance at a test center, so prior confirmation is necessary. As many students struggle with the language and mathematics sections, preparing in advance with study guides is advisable.
Tips: Even students with strong English skills might find the language and mathematics tests challenging. It's important to prepare with study guides in advance and familiarize yourself with the question formats. If you need to take the test at a center, plan your schedule in advance and confirm the location and method of the exam.
3.5 面接（大学3年生10月頃〜大学4年生6月頃まで）
Overview: Candidates' enthusiasm, understanding of the industry, and logical thinking are evaluated. Teamwork and communication skills are also critical evaluation points. It's important to concretely explain how your past activities and experiences can contribute to the company.
Anticipated Interview Questions:
Self-introduction
Self-promotion
Your strengths and weaknesses
Motivation for applying
Industry-specific motivation
Motivation for specific company (by job role)
What you value most in communication with others
Experience of failure
What you focused on during your student life
In the case of a research role, about your research
About your long-term career plans
What you want to achieve in the food and beverage industry
Questions about the company's products
Questions about the company's culture and philosophy
Tips: Always respond logically, especially in research roles where the content of your research may be scrutinized to ensure there are no inconsistencies between your claims and evidence. Prepare convincing and specific responses to questions, not just for your introduction but throughout the interview. Being polite and confident is expected. When asked about highly technical or specialized content, ensure your responses are understandable even to someone new to the field. Actively practice interviews to gain objective feedback on how others perceive you, which can enhance the accuracy of your interview responses. Take feedback seriously and use it to improve the quality of your responses for subsequent interviews.
3.6 Internships (From June of Junior Year to June of Senior Year)
Overview: Participating in internships in the food and beverage industry allows you to experience the process of project management while learning about the specific tasks associated with different job roles, such as product development planning and research. This experience becomes a powerful asset in interviews and entry sheets, providing a significant advantage in the selection process.
Tips: Internships offer a hands-on experience of the workflow, allowing you to learn about the importance of project flow and teamwork.
3.7 Final Interview (From October of Senior Year to June of Senior Year)
Overview: The final interview involves a comprehensive evaluation of the candidate, with a particular focus on their understanding of the industry and passion for the company. Compared to first and second interviews, deeper questions and more complex discussions are expected, necessitating thorough preparation.
Tips: In the final interview, it's crucial to demonstrate your industry knowledge and passion for food and beverage more than in previous interviews. Prepare to concretely discuss your experiences, especially emphasizing what you learned during internships, projects, or research. Also, be ready to discuss overall industry trends and developments to further enhance your impression.
Note: Selection schedules can change annually, and some companies may have unique schedules for international students, so it's important to check each company's recruitment page for detailed schedules and application guidelines.
4. Career Development and Future Prospects in the Industry
In Japan's food and beverage manufacturing industry, a long-term perspective on career development is essential. Many companies offer extensive training and clear career paths after joining, making it crucial to plan towards your career goals. Understanding how the industry will evolve in response to changes in society and consumer needs also makes it easier to envision future career prospects.
4.1 Typical Career Paths in the Food and Beverage Industry
The food and beverage manufacturing industry includes various roles such as product planning and development, marketing, sales, and quality control. Here we illustrate the typical career paths for each of these roles:
Product Planning and Development Roles: In charge of everything from new product concept design to prototype development and final market launch, individuals in these roles can ascend to project manager positions overseeing entire projects as they gain experience. A career path that aims to become a leader in product development, well-versed in industry and consumer trends, is common.
Marketing Roles: Centered around devising product promotion strategies and enhancing brand power, marketing roles focus on analyzing consumer insights and building promotional strategies. With experience, one can advance to become a brand manager or a leader in the marketing strategy department.
Sales Roles: Sales roles involve spreading products through negotiations with distributors and retailers. In large companies, it's common to progress to an account executive position managing specific clients, and further experience can lead to managing sales teams or overseeing national or global sales.
Research Roles: A research career typically starts as a research assistant or researcher and can advance to project leader or manager of the research department by accumulating specialized knowledge and experience. At higher levels, one might lead the company's research and development strategy as a director of R&D or chief scientist.
4.2 Methods to Enhance Skills for Career Development
It is recommended to actively incorporate the following methods to enhance skills with an eye towards future career development:
Acquiring Qualifications and Expert Knowledge: Enhancing qualifications related to food hygiene management, marketing, data analysis skills, and language proficiency can broaden career options.
Industry Research and Internship Experience: Understanding the latest trends through industry research and acquiring practical knowledge through internships can aid career development. Particularly, experience in Japan's food and beverage manufacturers can be a significant advantage for future careers.
Experience and Networking in Multicultural Settings: Collaboration in multinational teams and understanding of different cultures are highly valued by companies aiming to expand into foreign markets. Building a network with industry professionals is also beneficial. Participating in industry seminars and study groups to absorb up-to-date knowledge and information is recommended.
5. Conclusion
Japan's food and beverage manufacturing industry is a vital industry that continuously evolves within the diverse food culture and is closely linked to consumers' lives. The development of new products that respond to the rising health consciousness and environmental awareness reflects societal changes, bringing new business opportunities to the industry. As the domestic market matures, there is also a move to strengthen expansion into global markets. Building a career in the food and beverage industry requires scientific knowledge and nutrition, as well as an international perspective and the ability to understand multiculturalism. Moreover, sensitively capturing consumer needs and advancing sustainable product development are increasingly crucial for success in this industry.
Jelper Club provides the perfect resources to explore these career paths, offering practical advice and information for those looking to gain job experience in the food and beverage industry. Our platform features profiles of various industry companies and exclusive job listings available only to Jelper Club members. Additionally, face-to-face events like "Soirée Tokyo" hosted by Jelper Club also involve participants who work in the food and beverage industry, making these events highly effective for networking. Participants have the opportunity to share the latest industry trends, the appeal of the sector, career tips, and selection information all in one place. Jelper Club plans to continue actively posting job listings in this field, providing attractive career opportunities. We encourage frequent checks of our 'Job Updates'.
Furthermore, Jelper Club will continue to publish articles explaining various industries and job types. We encourage you to actively post questions and inquiries about industries of interest in the 'Thread'.
(Editor: Jelper Club Editorial Team)