Maksim Polkin, a prominent sake distributor in Japan, shares his journey in the sake industry, from Russia to Ginza. The conversation covers Imadeya's marketing strategies, Russian cuisine evolution, sake pairings, and the presence of Japanese beverages in the Russian market. They also discuss customer trends in Ginza and plans to improve the sake store experience for all clientele.
Maxim Polky manages global marketing and educates about sake at Imadeya Ginza.
Imadeya Ginza focuses on diversity and quality, anticipating premium sake trends and customer preferences.
Deep dives
Maxim's Journey to Japan and the Sake Industry
Maxim Polky shares his journey from Russia to Japan, highlighting his background in the sake industry. He discusses his transition to Imadeya Genza, where he handles global marketing, educates about sake, and manages a wide selection of over 600 sake labels.
Imadeya Genza's Distinct Offerings and Marketing Strategy
Imadeya Genza's unique offerings are detailed, including a collection of 600 sake labels, a dedicated kakuchi space, and special limited editions. Maxim emphasizes the strategic approach to marketing, focusing on providing diverse, high-quality sake options for customers.
Trends in the Sake Market and Consumer Behavior
Maxim predicts a rise in the premium sake segment and a continued preference for low-alcohol and organic sake. He highlights the demand for exclusive and seasonal sake, observing specific preferences from various international markets like South Korea and Taiwan.
Educational Initiatives and Future Developments
Maxim delves into educational efforts at Imadeya Genza, offering English sake classes and rare tasting experiences. He discusses potential industry developments, anticipating increased producer diversity and the evolution of marketing strategies in response to consumer demands.
We’re Back! This time we are talking to Maksim Polkin of Imadeya, one of the most well known sake distributors in Japan. He is usually at their Ginza Six location, but helps introduce people to the wonders of sake all around Tokyo. Sebastien Lemoine and Chris Hughes talk with Maksim about how he found himself in Japan and in Sake. Their conversation also winds through the forest of sake retail, the needs of different markets and how Imadeya sees itself in the industry.