Japan’s Asahi Beer Faces Shortage: How a Cyber-Attack Disrupted Supply and What It Means for Fans

Japan is currently experiencing a shortage of popular Asahi products, including beer and bottled tea. This issue stems from a cyber-attack that has hit Asahi’s operations hard, causing many of its factories to halt production.

Since the attack began impacting their ordering and delivery systems, retailers like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart have warned customers that they may face stock shortages. Asahi, Japan’s largest brewer, makes a wide range of beverages, including soft drinks and food products. Notably, these operations contribute to about half of Asahi’s sales.

In a recent statement, Asahi admitted that they couldn’t give a specific timeline for when they would recover. They have begun some manual processing of orders but emphasize that the main goal is to ensure their products are still available. Until the systems are fully restored, receiving emails from external sources has also been disrupted.

Atsushi Katsuki, Asahi’s president and CEO, expressed regret over the inconvenience. He assured customers that they are working tirelessly to restore their systems and supply chain as quickly as possible.

Several retailers have noted that the situation is causing real inconvenience. FamilyMart announced that its Famimaru bottled teas, sourced from Asahi, might be in short supply. Similarly, 7-Eleven confirmed that shipments of Asahi, including the beloved Super Dry beer, have stopped. Lawson and Life Cooperation—major supermarket chains—also alerted customers about potential shortages.

Such disruptions are not just a momentary challenge; they reflect how interconnected modern supply chains are. In 2022, a report indicated that cyber-attacks on businesses worldwide increased by over 40%. This highlights the growing need for companies like Asahi to bolster their cyber defenses to prevent similar crises in the future.

User reactions on social media showcase frustration and disappointment from consumers who enjoy Asahi products. Popular hashtags have emerged, with many expressing their hope for a quick resolution.

Asahi’s reliance on Japan for a substantial portion of its sales underlines the urgency of restoring operations. While they navigate these challenges, it’s a reminder for all companies about the importance of cybersecurity and robust crisis management plans.

For more details, you can check Asahi’s official statement here.

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