Asahi Breweries traces its roots back to 1889, when it was founded as the Osaka Beer Company in Japan. The brewery emerged as an independent entity under the name Asahi Beer Co., Ltd. in 1949, after separating from Dai Nippon Breweries. Headquartered in Sumida, Tokyo, the company has grown into one of Japan's most iconic and internationally recognized brewing groups, operating today as part of Asahi Group Holdings. Asahi is best known for its flagship lager, which has become synonymous with crisp, clean Japanese brewing craftsmanship. The brewery's portfolio spans a wide range of beer styles, and its global reach expanded significantly through strategic acquisitions, including the establishment of Asahi Breweries Europe in 1998. Notably, Asahi now owns the Grolsch brewery in the Netherlands, which was originally founded in 1615 — making it one of the oldest breweries under the Asahi umbrella. Through decades of international growth, Asahi has cemented its reputation as a major force in global brewing. The group's European operations bring together a diverse portfolio of heritage beer brands, combining Japanese brewing precision with centuries-old European brewing traditions.