Seven & i × Suntory "Co-developed Products" Product Briefing Launch Commemorative Event

Seven & i Holdings and Suntory Beverage & Food International held a product briefing and launch event on January 14 at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo in Minato Ward to commemorate the release of their jointly developed double-brand canned coffee: "Seven Premium x Suntory Boss 'World Seven Blend Original'" and "World Seven Blend Light Sugar."

Yasushi Kamata, Managing Executive Officer of Seven-Eleven Japan (right in photo), stated, "We are launching this as a new private brand that achieves both the brand strength and taste our customers desire." Yuji Yamazaki, Senior Managing Director of Suntory Beverage & Food International (left in photo), expressed his enthusiasm: "This is the first-ever double brand combining a private brand and a national brand. We want to challenge ourselves to create new value that balances dedication and affordability."

SMAP members Masahiro Nakai and Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, who appear in Suntory Coffee "BOSS" commercials, made an appearance at the venue. When Nakai remarked that the new product "feels like me and Kusanagi-kun are debuting together," Kusanagi immediately retorted, "I think that's even more amazing." The two wrote New Year's calligraphy messages of support for "all working people." Nakai revealed the characters "七三輪気" (shichisanwake), explaining, "The 'seven' from Seven & i, the 'three' from Suntory. And this 'wheel' (輪) was written with the feeling of the two companies becoming one 'circle' (輪)."

Finally, Nakai stated, "Their desire to provide something interesting and meet society's needs resonates with us. We want to soar alongside World Seven Blend." Kusanagi concluded, "This new product refreshes you during work breaks and gives you energy. I think you'll understand its appeal once you try it."