In a surprising turn of events, Suntory Holdings announced that its high-profile CEO, Takeshi Niinami, has resigned following a police investigation into his purchase of a supplement that may have violated Japan's strict drug laws. The news marks the end of a decade-long leadership era that saw
Holdings expand globally and solidify its place as one of Japan's most influential companies.
Niinami, who has long been regarded as the international face of corporate Japan, admitted to purchasing the supplement but insisted he believed it was legal. In an interview with the Asahi newspaper, he stated: "I was not aware that it was an illegal supplement. I am innocent." Still, Niinami said he felt Suntory Holdings could not remain united under his leadership and therefore stepped down on September 1.
The company's president, Nobuhiro Torii a great-grandson of founder Shinjiro Torii will now fully helm Suntory Holdings. At a press briefing, Torii praised Niinami's bold leadership, noting it was a "real shame" the two could not continue working as a team.
The investigation, led by police in Fukuoka prefecture, is looking into whether supplements containing cannabis components, possibly THC, were sent to Niinami's residence. THC is illegal under Japanese law, though CBD products remain permitted. According to reports, police questioned Niinami and searched his Tokyo home, though no evidence of drug possession or use has been confirmed.
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