Lion Nathan, the Australasian brewer, intends to manufacture and distribute the Japanese beer brand produced by Kirin, Kirin Ichiban, in Australia. Kirin Ischiban will be available on the Australian market since May 1st 2003. The Japanese brand will be produced at the Malt Shovel Brewery, based in Sydney.

"People's interest in Japanese food has been increasing due to an increasing consciousness about health. Kirin is now able to provide a fresh premium beer brewed locally. While total beer consumption is at a plateau in Australia and New Zealand, the premium beer category including imported brands has been growing steadily. Kirin will aim to expand the domain of their global beer business by launching this unique product mainly at the high-end market in metropolitan areas in Australia and New Zealand." the company said in a statement.

Kirin and Lion Nathan China jointly launched "Kirin Seijun Beer" in Shanghai in January 2003.

08 April, 2003