The company will transition into a ‘top-two’ management structure, with the current president and chief executive Takeshi (Tak) Niinami remaining as chairman and chief executive.

Niinami said: “I look forward to working closely with Nobu to pursue our shared ambition of becoming the first Japanese company to emerge as a global leader in consumer goods, taking Suntory Group to new heights.”

Under the new management structure, Torii will lead the entire Suntory Group worldwide, working closely with Niinami.