The Internationalisation of Japanese Sake Firms: Lessons for long-term survival

Japan’s sake industry is rich in tradition. However, its future depends on how well it adapts to global markets. Our research examines how small and family run sake breweries, many with centuries of history, are navigating the process of international expansion.

We surveyed 450 sake producers and brewery leaders to understand what drives or holds them back from market expansion. What we found is encouraging: it’s not fear of cost or complexity that limits growth, it’s how leaders perceive their strengths and the opportunities both in the domestic market and abroad.

The most successful breweries aren’t necessarily the biggest, they’re the ones with a clear vision, confidence in their unique value, and a willingness to engage internationally. This research offers a roadmap for how traditional industries can scale internationally without losing their identity.

For business leaders, this research highlights potential factors for long-term survival and key factors that contribute to market success.

About the presenters

Dr Rumintha Wickrama Sekera, Associate Professor and industry collaborator at Queensland University of Technology

Dr Rumintha Wickrama Sekera is an Associate Professor and industry collaborator at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), specialising in SME internationalisation. Drawing on professional experience across the Indo-Pacific, including the US, Japan, Taiwan, and Malaysia, Dr Wickrama Sekera brings deep regional insight and a strong network of global academic and industry connections. He has led international study tours, developed cross-border education partnerships, and delivered presentations to business and government audiences across Asia. His research focuses on the global expansion and long-term success of SMEs, with case studies spanning Australia, Latin America, and Asia. He is co-author of Global Business Today: Asia-Pacific Edition, the region’s most widely used IB textbook, and has received national recognition for his innovative, real-world teaching methods. Dr Wickrama Sekera has worked closely with government and industry to promote experiential learning and international business capabilities. He welcomes opportunities to collaborate with partners seeking to expand internationally, develop talent pipelines, or engage with Asia-Pacific markets.

Anne Nalder, CEO and Founder of Small Business Association of Australia

Anne Nalder is the CEO and Founder of the Small Business Association of Australia, an organisation she launched in 2010 to champion the interests of small enterprises nationwide. With a dynamic career spanning over three decades, Anne began her entrepreneurial journey in 1991 and has remained passionately committed to fostering innovation, independence, and opportunity in the business sector. Her rich and varied background includes service in the Women’s Royal Australian Air Force, television presenting with Channel 6 Mackay and Channel 7 Rockhampton, and a decade-long tenure at Qantas, where her talent for event management truly blossomed. From coordinating high-profile events like concerts for Kiss, Elton John, and Fleetwood Mac to golf tours and performances by the Australian Ballet, Anne has left an indelible mark on the events industry. Anne’s continued dedication to small business, particularly through her association, reflects her unwavering belief in entrepreneurship as a powerful force for individual and community empowerment.

Kristian Fredheim, Founder of Wabba Snacks

Kristian is a visionary Norwegian entrepreneur and health innovator, best known as the founder of Wabba - a dynamic startup revolutionising the snack industry with high-protein, nutrient-packed alternatives. With a passion for sustainable nutrition, Kristian has positioned Wabba Snacks as a go-to brand for health-conscious consumers, combining great taste with functional benefits.