Japan: Asahi to launch a renewed version of its third-category beers - Shin-Nama Three

Asahi Breweries announced on September 15 that it will introduce a renewed version of its "third-category" beer on November 22, only seven months after the release of the original version under the name of "Asahi Shin-Nama." Kyodo reported. Third-category drinks are beer-like alcoholic beverages which, unlike conventional beer, use ingredients other than malt and wheat and thus are subject to lower liquor taxes.

Asahi broke into the fast-growing market for third-category beers by introducing Shin-Nama on April 20. Of Japan's top four brewers, Asahi is ranked third in the market sector, while Kirin Brewery Co., which also entered the market in April, has captured the biggest share.

The new "Shin-Nama Three" will feature a sharper taste than the original version and will come in 250-, 350- and 500-mililiter cans, the Brewer announced.

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