Nestlé Japan has announced a leadership change, with Motoi Shimakawa set to become President and CEO from 1 July 2026.
The company confirmed that current President and CEO Tatsuhiko Fukaya will retire on 30 June 2026 after leading the business from Kobe, Japan.
Shimakawa currently serves as Senior Managing Executive Officer and General Manager of the Beverage Business Division at Nestlé Japan. Over recent years, he has led several major areas of the company’s beverage operations, including Nescafé and Starbucks CPG businesses across both in-home and out-of-home channels.
The executive has also overseen digital marketing and e-commerce operations, helping drive growth through digital transformation and online business expansion.
Nestlé Japan said Shimakawa also played a key role in strengthening the company’s cold coffee category, which has been growing rapidly in the Japanese market.
Shimakawa joined Nestlé Japan in 2002 and has held several leadership positions across sales, beverage strategy, soluble coffee, digital commerce and new business development.
The leadership transition comes as FMCG companies across Japan continue investing in digital retail channels, convenience-led beverage formats and direct consumer engagement strategies.
The appointment also highlights the growing importance of beverage innovation and e-commerce leadership inside major global food companies operating in Asia.
In recent years, Japan FMCG companies have increasingly focused on coffee innovation, convenience retail partnerships and digital consumer platforms as competition in the beverage sector continues to intensify.
Nestlé Japan said Shimakawa will officially assume the role of President and CEO on 1 July 2026.
Japan FMCG developments continue to shape beverage and retail strategies across the wider Asia-Pacific market.
Editor’s Note: This article is based on an official announcement published by Nestlé Japan regarding its upcoming CEO transition and leadership changes effective July 2026.
