Key Facts
• Suntory Holdings announced Chairman Takeshi Niinami’s resignation on September 2, 2025.
• Niinami served as Vice Chairman of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Expo.
• Suntory, founded in Osaka in 1899, plays a key role in the Osaka-Kansai Expo.
• Niinami’s resignation surprised Osaka’s business leaders, raising concerns about Expo impact.
• Suntory President Nobuhiro Torii, great-grandson of founder Shinjiro Torii, made the announcement.
• Osaka Chamber of Commerce Chairman Shingo Torii, a relative, expressed limited concern.
• Niinami previously promoted the Expo, urging nationwide participation in April 2025.
• Business leaders noted no direct Expo impact but viewed the resignation as untimely.
• The Expo is nearing its conclusion, mitigating potential long-term effects.
• Suntory continues its Expo involvement with attractions and exhibits.
Summary
The resignation of Suntory Holdings Chairman Takeshi Niinami has sent shockwaves through Osaka’s business community. Niinami, who also served as Vice Chairman of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Expo, played a pivotal role in promoting the event. His unexpected departure raised concerns about potential disruptions to the Expo, though business leaders believe the impact will be minimal as the event nears its conclusion. Suntory, a company deeply rooted in Osaka since its founding in 1899, remains committed to its Expo contributions. The announcement was made by President Nobuhiro Torii, a descendant of the company’s founder, with Osaka Chamber of Commerce Chairman Shingo Torii expressing cautious optimism. While Niinami’s resignation is seen as a personal matter, its timing has drawn attention, particularly given his prior efforts to boost national enthusiasm for the Expo.
