- Innovation
Business Portfolio
Our diverse portfolio of Suntory businesses reflects a unique heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, and an innovative spirit that enriches lives. Discover the stories behind our products, services and activities, from the carefully selected ingredients and time-honored processes to the enriching experiences they create. and how the business groups expand and grow.
Vending machines are woven into the fabric of Japanese daily life. From bustling train stations to quiet street corners, these machines dot the landscape and often appear in surprisingly remote locations—alongside forest paths or standing solitary in the middle of fields. These ubiquitous machines serve as more than mere conveniences; they've become cultural landmarks that reflect Japan's unique blend of technological efficiency and everyday practicality.
Beyond Drinks: The Wacky World of Japanese Vending Machines
Beyond a delightful array of refreshing beverages, Japanese vending machines are full of surprises. Some machines are wrapped in colorful anime art or styled like traditional storefronts. Others are shaped like adorable animals, transforming the simple act of buying a drink into a fun experience. What you'll find inside is equally impressive—from steaming cans of savory corn soup that comforts on chilly days to café-quality coffee brewed right before your eyes. Throughout Japan, vending machines double as mini convenience stores, selling various things from rice and vegetables to fresh seafood and Wagyu beef.*1
Suntory's Approach: Everyday Machines with Purpose
The playful and creative world of Japanese vending machines reflects a culture that values convenience, delight, and thoughtful design. Building on this, Suntory sees vending machines as more than just a way to offer drinks—they are a chance to support daily life, encourage connection, and meet local needs through small but impactful innovations. At Suntory, vending machines put our philosophy into action—creating rich experiences that inspire people’s brilliant moments.
Depending on the location and community needs, Suntory's machines offer a variety of benefits:
- In office settings, Suntory offers vending machines with BOSS MART that provide both beverages and light meals, making break times more fulfilling. A separate initiative, the "President's Treat" vending machine, dispenses free drinks when two coworkers tap their employee IDs together. These create natural gathering spots for employees. This playful feature creates natural moments of small talk and connection—what Suntory calls "more than a greeting, less than a meal."
- For fans and collectors, Suntory offers the "TAG LIVE LABEL" service—limited-edition canned drinks with custom labels tied to events or popular characters. It's a memorable fan experience that turns a drink into a collectible moment.
- Health and safety focused machines help prevent heatstroke during Japan's hot summers by offering special DAKARA drinks rich in electrolytes. These machines serve as convenient hydration stations where people can get beverages specifically designed to fight dehydration. Many businesses place these machines in accessible locations to help employees and visitors stay safely hydrated when temperatures rise.
- Select Universal Design models feature low-set buttons, handrails, and easy retrieval, ensuring accessibility for children, seniors, and wheelchair users alike.
Each vending machine reflects Suntory’s belief that even everyday routines can be approached with care and creativity. Whether it’s offering a quick meal, a collectible label, or a playful experience at work, these machines are designed to create brilliant moments in everyday life. It’s a quiet reminder that innovation doesn’t always mean big change—sometimes, it’s about making the familiar feel just a little more special.
