WAKAZE

WAKAZE, based in Japan, specializes in the innovative production of sake that blends traditional brewing techniques with modern culinary trends, aiming to elevate sake as a globally celebrated beverage. Founded in 2016, WAKAZE operates from Tokyo, Japan, focusing on crafting unique sake products. The company has successfully completed a Series C funding round, led by JAFCO Group, with a total amount raised of JPY 1 billion as of January 2023, propelling its valuation to JPY 4. 25 billion.

The founders, IMAI Shoya and Takuma Inagawa, bring extensive experience in beverage innovation, with CEO Takuma Inagawa leading the charge in expanding the company’s reach. WAKAZE specializes in the production of innovative sake that merges traditional Japanese brewing techniques with contemporary culinary influences. Their core offerings include a variety of sake types, such as botanical sake and barrel-aged sake, designed to enhance diverse dining experiences ranging from Japanese and French cuisine to ethnic and fusion dishes. Positioned in the culinary epicenter of France, WAKAZE aims to elevate sake to a globally recognized beverage, tapping into food culture trends and the inspirations of culinary professionals.

The company's products are distributed primarily in France, Japan, and the United States, catering to both individual consumers and retail partners, thereby expanding the reach of sake beyond traditional markets. WAKAZE generates revenue through direct sales of its sake products via its official online store as well as through partnerships with retailers and restaurants. The business model is structured predominantly on a direct-to-consumer basis, allowing customers to purchase a range of sake offerings tailored to various culinary settings. Transactions are executed through standard e-commerce processes, enabling customers to order products online, with potential options for subscription services for regular deliveries of new and existing sake varieties.

Pricing details for individual products are aligned with the premium quality of the craft sake, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and quality in the beverage market. In January 2023, WAKAZE Inc. raised JPY 1 billion in a Series C funding round led by JAFCO Group, with participation from DBJ Capital, Egg Forward, SMBC Venture Capital, and TAKARA HOLDINGS INC. The funds will be allocated toward business development, recruitment, and expansion of product facilities.

WAKAZE plans to introduce new sake varieties and expand into additional markets, including Europe and North America, by late 2024.