BrewDog has announced the launch of a joint venture in Japan with Asahi Japan, which will see BrewDog beers rolled out across Japan from September.

The joint venture – over which BrewDog will retain a controlling interest – will be known as “BrewDog Japan” and is the first of its type for BrewDog.

It will operate as a standalone entity with its own sales, marketing and back-office teams and will focus exclusively on the distribution and marketing of key BrewDog brands Japan, the company said.

Whilst BrewDog beers are already available in limited locations across Japan, the joint venture is designed to grow brand awareness country-wide.

BrewDog said it explored a number of strategic options to accelerate the expansion of its business through the fast-growing Asian markets.

James Watt, CEO of BrewDog said: “We’re excited to be growing our presence in Japan and, in Asahi Japan, to be doing so in partnership with one of the most prestigious names in the drinks industry.

“BrewDog’s beers are now enjoyed in over 60 countries around the world and it’s a great testament to the quality of our beers, not to mention the excellent taste of Japanese beer drinkers, that we have this opportunity to grow further in such a significant market.”

Daisaku Okuda, COO of BrewDog Company Japan, Ltd. added: “With its reputation for high-quality craft beers, BrewDog already has an established fanbase in Japan.

“We’re pleased to launch the business operation in Japan to help bring great beer to consumers across the whole country.”