Tokyo – Suntory Holdings, one of Japan’s most iconic beverage companies, announced the resignation of its chairman and CEO, Takeshi Niinami, following a police investigation into supplements allegedly containing illegal substances.
Niinami, 66, who has been a well-known figure in both business and politics, stepped down on September 1, according to company officials. He reportedly informed colleagues on August 22 that he was under police investigation. Suntory President Nobuhiro Torii and Vice President Kenji Yamada confirmed the development at a press briefing, stating that Niinami offered to resign for personal reasons.
Investigators earlier searched Niinami’s Tokyo residence amid suspicions that he had obtained supplements from an acquaintance overseas. Authorities believe the products may have contained THC, a cannabis-derived substance that is strictly prohibited in Japan. The probe is ongoing to determine whether Niinami was aware of the contents.
In his statement to the company, Niinami maintained that he purchased the supplements believing they were legal. However, under Japan’s law, possession of substances containing THC carries severe penalties, including up to seven years in prison. Unlike some countries, Japan does not permit cannabis for medical or recreational use.
Niinami’s resignation marks the end of his decade-long leadership at Suntory. Before joining the beverage giant, he was the first outsider to head Lawson, a major convenience store chain. His role at Suntory was historic, as he became one of the few non-family executives to lead the company.
Suntory, known globally for its whisky, beer, energy drinks, and soft beverages, is a household name in Japan and abroad. The brand gained international recognition in pop culture through Sofia Coppola’s 2003 film Lost in Translation, where its whisky was featured in a storyline.
In December, the company appointed Nobuhiro Torii as president, restoring leadership to Suntory’s founding family, while Niinami remained chairman and CEO. With his resignation now finalized, the company has entered a new phase under family leadership.
Niinami has also been an influential voice in Japan’s economic policies, having served as an adviser to several prime ministers. His departure comes as a significant development in both Japan’s business and political circles.
