Suntory CEO resigns amid police probe into alleged illegal supplement purchase

Takeshi Niinami, CEO and chair of Suntory Holdings, has resigned following a police investigation into his purchase of a supplement that may have been illegal. Suntory Holdings, based in Japan, is one of the world’s largest beverage companies and owns well-known brands such as Maker’s Mark whisky, Ribena, Lucozade, and Orangina.

Niinami informed Suntory on August 22 that he was under investigation by police. According to a statement from the company, he told executives that he had purchased a supplement believing it was legal. Local media in Tokyo reported that police are investigating whether supplements sent to Niinami’s home contained a cannabis-derived component, which is strictly regulated under Japanese law.

Suntory stated that compliance with laws and regulations is fundamental for its executive management. The company emphasized that exercising caution when purchasing supplements is an essential responsibility for its leaders. Suntory said it determined that Niinami’s actions showed a lack of awareness regarding supplement purchases and made him unable to continue in his role. After discussions with Niinami, he offered his resignation for personal reasons, which the company accepted effective September 1.

Niinami is a prominent figure in Japanese business. He joined Suntory in 2014 after leading the convenience store chain Lawson. He was the first CEO of Suntory from outside the founding family and has represented Japan at international events such as the World Economic Forum in Davos. He has also served as an economic advisor to several Japanese prime ministers.

Japan enforces some of the world’s strictest anti-drug laws. Even small amounts of banned substances can lead to criminal charges and jail time. The country has seen other high-profile business leaders face consequences for alleged drug-related offenses. Last year, Stefan Kaufmann, CEO of Olympus, was dismissed after allegations he had purchased illegal drugs.

Suntory Holdings continues to operate as one of the leading global beverage companies with a diverse portfolio of alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands. The company has not yet announced who will succeed Niinami as CEO and chair. The police investigation into the supplement purchase remains ongoing.