What this whiskey CEO has to say about Gen Z's alcohol consumption—or lack thereof

The spirits industry has seen tremendous growth over the past decade as consumers seek out new flavors. Many of these same consumers have been open as well to spending ever higher sums of money for more premium spirits – all part of participating in the shift toward partaking in experiences rather than buying stuff. The industry has also seen a great deal of consolidation. In a special Opening Bid, Yahoo Finance executive editor Brian Sozzi descends to the New York City headquarters of Japanese spirits juggernaut Suntory Holdings. Sozzi meets up with Suntory Holdings CEO Tak Niinami, who has been at the helm of the maker of Hibiki and Yamazaki whiskey since 2014. Niinami shares his perspective into Gen Z, saying they are more "health conscious" and like to deal with companies that have a social awareness. He continues acknowledging the differences between his generation and Gen Z as it pertains to alcohol consumption and will focus on making adjustments to the business model accordingly. Niinami also talks about his leadership lessons honed during a decade of leading Suntory Holdings, and what the company’s next decade may look like.

Yahoo Finance's Opening Bid, brings you a high-octane take on the freshest analyst calls, wildest stock moves and shrewdest commentary in the business world. Executive Editor Brian Sozzi puts Wall Street's finest through their paces in this essential conversation for every investor - before the stock market opens.

Find this episode's transcripts and more episodes of Opening Bid at https://finance.yahoo.com/videos/series/opening-bid/.

Thoughts? Questions? Fan mail? Email us at yfpodcasts@yahooinc.com.

00:00-Tak Niinami joins Opening Bid

02:00-Suntory is all about "east meets west"

05:25-Where Suntory can fill in the portfolio

09:00-How climate change will affect the alcohol industry

11:52-What changes in drinking habits mean for Suntory Whiskey

13:00-Shrinkflation and whiskey

19:45-Lessons in leadership

Yahoo Finance's Opening Bid is hosted by Brian Sozzi, and produced by Rachael Lewis-Krisky. 

Takeshi "Tak" Niinami is the Chief Executive Officer of Suntory Holdings, and has led the company's global strategic growth since taking the helm in 2014. Prior to joining Suntory in 2014, Tak served as CEO of Lawson, Inc., which he grew into one of Asia’s major convenience store operators, posting profit growth for 12 consecutive years and quadrupling its market capitalization during his tenure.

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