Japan’s Favorite Beer Runs Dry

Japan’s Favorite Beer Runs Dry After Cyberattack on Asahi
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Japan’s Favorite Beer Runs Dry After Cyberattack on Asahi

Japan’s beer lovers are facing an unexpected crisis: Asahi Super Dry, one of the nation’s most iconic drinks, is running out after a cyberattack crippled the brewer’s systems. The disruption highlights how digital threats can spill over into the real world — in this case, leaving taps dry and store shelves empty.

What Happened?

  • On September 29, 2025, Asahi Group Holdings was hit by a cyberattack that shut down its order, shipping, and logistics systems.
  • The outage has prevented the company from delivering beer to restaurants, bars, and convenience stores across Japan.
  • While Asahi is scrambling to enter some orders manually, supply is rapidly dwindling.
  • So far, no customer data has been confirmed as compromised, and international operations are unaffected.

Why It Matters

1. Cultural Impact

Asahi Super Dry isn’t just a drink — it’s the default pour at countless izakayas (Japanese pubs) and a cultural staple. Some restaurants report being down to their last keg, a nightmare scenario for businesses built around the beer experience.

2. Retail Shortages

Convenience store giants like Lawson, FamilyMart, and 7-Eleven are already struggling to restock. Supermarkets warn they may run out entirely if systems don’t come back soon.

3. Cybersecurity Lessons

This incident shows that cyberattacks don’t just steal data — they can disrupt supply chains and shut down physical goods. A ransomware hit to a logistics system is enough to halt production, shipments, and consumer access.

What’s Next?

  • Asahi says it is working with authorities and cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach.
  • There’s no clear timeline for when systems will be fully restored.
  • In the meantime, rival brands like Kirin and Suntory may temporarily fill the gap — but for loyal Super Dry fans, there’s no substitute.

Final Thoughts

The Asahi cyberattack is a sobering reminder of how interconnected the digital and physical worlds are. For businesses everywhere, it’s proof that cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting data — it’s about keeping your product flowing.


Sources: The Verge, Reuters, TechRadar