A global gathering of Suntory Flowers’ divisions from Japan, the USA, Australia, China, and the Netherlands recently concluded in Japan. The meeting, known as the Suntory Flowers G5 Summit, provided a platform for the exchange of market insights, trend analysis, and previews of upcoming plant varieties.
“We had a fantastic opportunity to share our experiences and learn from each other,” said a participant. “The highlight was the garden barbecue, where we enjoyed mouthwatering Kobe beef and Suntory beverages, truly a feast for the senses.”
Exploring Innovation at the Suntory World Research Center
The summit also included a visit to the Suntory World Research (SWR) Center in Kyoto. Established in 2015, the SWR Center is a hub for cutting-edge research in flavor and taste, health science, botany, water science, and sustainability. It houses several key Suntory entities, including Suntory Wellness Limited, Safety Science Institute, Suntory Global Innovation Center Limited, and Bioorganic Research Institute.
“The SWR Center is at the forefront of global research, driving innovation and excellence in various scientific fields,” noted a representative from Suntory Flowers.
Retail Insights in Kyoto
After the SWR visit, the team stopped by a local garden center in Kyoto to observe retail strategies. They noted the use of branded flat-talker signage and the display of larger plant mannequins alongside smaller plants to illustrate potential growth.
“In Japan, Suntory has a robust contract grower network and a dedicated sales force with retail accounts,” said a team member. “This vertical integration is something we aspire to replicate in the USA.”
Osaka Expo 2025: A Global Showcase
Suntory Holdings is a prominent sponsor of the Osaka Expo 2025, a world’s fair held every five years. This year’s Expo, themed “Designing Future Society For Our Lives,” features participation from nearly 160 countries. The event, which runs through October 13th, is highlighted by a grand wooden ring structure that recently earned a Guinness World Record for the largest wooden architectural structure. Visitors can take escalators to the top for a stunning view of the surrounding landscapes and water.
The Suntory Flowers G5 Summit and related activities underscore the company’s commitment to global collaboration, innovation, and market excellence.
