Suntory announce new price hikes on their entire range, doubling the prices of the high age statement releases… OUCH

Well, Suntory have done it again, this time, in spectacular fashion.

So firstly, a HUGE shout out to the great people at Nomunication who continue to be a source of great information when it comes to Whisky in Japan. Most of this information was brought to my attention through their blog post which I will reference link below.

So, what on earth is happening here? Suntory appear to be trying to bridge the gap between the grey market pricing and their own, that’s my take on this. It’s no secret, that even in Japan, resellers are claiming a good portion of the stock through creative means, then reselling it at slightly below international market rates locally, knowing the stock ends up overseas. Clearly, Suntory are now trying to increase their pricing to almost match the reseller pricing, in order to prevent this lucrative reseller channel.. That’s my take.

What does this mean for you, here in Australia? I’d anticipate a 20-30% price hike on the key Suntory products. There are some things that I think are certain, resellers will continue resell (With lower margins due to market demand lowering with prices rising) and Australia will continue to have low local stock allocation (as well as high retail price adjustments - Just look at the Airport duty free prices and you will understand.. Yes I am selling stock cheaper than Melbourne airport supposed “duty free” prices).

If you would like to see the full information, please visit the link below to Nomunication, but in summary… Hibiki 21 Year, Yamazaki 18 Year and Hakushu 18 Year is getting a 72% price increase with 12 year variants getting a 50% price increase. This has already impacted the Japan local market pricing and will continue to do so gradually, until the actual price rise comes in April 1st 2024 (And no this is not an April fools joke despite how unrealistic it may sound).

My advice, Buy now if you cant live without these releases.

https://www.nomunication.jp/2023/11/21/suntory-dont-gaf-will-massively-increase-whisky-prices/