Asahi Soft Drinks Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tokyo; President: Kayoko Kondo) announced that 'green cola,' previously available only in convenience stores in the Tokyo metropolitan area (Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, Kanagawa), will be sold nationwide starting August 4.

Green Cola is an international brand born in Greece in 2012 and is currently distributed in over 50 countries and regions. In Japan, it has been sold exclusively at convenience stores in the 1-capital and 3-prefecture area since May 12. Key features include the use of plant-derived stevia, zero sugar, zero preservatives, and zero calories, offering a refreshing taste. The packaging highlights these product features with the 'green cola' logo and the phrase 'NO SUGAR, NO CALORIES,' which evoke the use of plant-based ingredients.

For advertising, Asahi has cast Gen Z icons Ranmaru Kishitani, Hirona Nagahama, MON7A, and JESSICA. The campaign aims to increase brand awareness and stimulate purchase among young people through TV commercials and digital media channels.

Consumption trends among the younger generation reveal a coexistence of two needs: 'Smart Consumption,' which seeks to minimize daily health debt, and 'Guilty Pleasure Consumption,' seen in trends like 'rich-gourmet' meals loaded with fat or cheese and 'cheat days.' Green Cola markets its sugar-free, zero-calorie benefits through the message 'NO is Smart,' aiming to be positioned as a 'guilt-free cola.' Feedback from areas where the product was launched early includes comments such as, 'It's refreshing and easy to drink,' 'I can enjoy cola without feeling guilty,' and 'The packaging is stylish and makes me want to carry it around.' By expanding this globally popular brand nationwide, Asahi aims to provide consumers with a new choice amid growing health awareness.

[Product Overview]

Product Name: green cola Container/Volume: PET 500ml Suggested Retail Price: 200 JPY (excluding tax), 216 JPY (including tax) Category: Carbonated beverage Release Date: August 4 Distribution: Nationwide

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: New Product
  • Products / services: green cola