Hitachino helping out in Japan

Many many people are stepping up to provide aid to tsunami and earthquake victims in Japan right now, and all of the efforts should be applauded! I recently learned that Kiuchi Brewery, makers of Hitachino Nest beers, has repaired their brewery but is bottling water, instead of beer or sake, to provide to families affected by the disasters! They have also opened up their kitchen and are preparing meals for families who have lost their homes in the area.

Here's a copy of their update from Tuesday:

"Thank you so much!!
Everyone in Japan is so discouraged by this big earthquake.
Tokyo is far from most damaged area, but nobody never visit restaurant, only staying house.
Also some oil plant which is located near sea was broken by big Tsunami wave and a lot of cars are waiting at the gasoline station.

At our brewery, roof of some building, some brewing equipment was damaged, and almost 500 bottles (only) was broken but everyone is safe.
Near brewery there are so many hole and cracks are on the load.
Also when I visited sea area (20min. by car), I was so so surprised, I could not understand.
There are so many ships on the hill which were drained by Tsunami.
19 people were missed in this area.

Now we almost finished repair brewing equipment and ready for start brewing.
But electrical power was limited, also we are bottling waiter to supply everyone, and staff of our restaurant are cooking free food for people who lost house.
One brewery which is located Miyagi area owned by my relative was drained all buildings and some staffs were missed.

I think there are 10 sake brewery and 5 beer brewery which was damaged so seriously.
Our Kiuchi Brewery will open small beer bar in this April and we will do charity party and donate them. So your offer will so happy for us.
Thank you so much.

Toshiyuki Kiuchi

Kiuchi Brewery"

B. United International, their US importer, is working to set up a "Kiuchi Earthquake/Tsunami Fund" to aid the Kiuchi brewery and Kiuchi Family in their mission to help those affected by these recent disasters. I'll post an update when I learn more about the Fund, or you can contact B. United directly through their website.

(We may see some interruptions in availability of Hitachino Nest beers over the coming months, but we'll be working hard to keep them on the shelves as they become available.)

Our thoughts go out to those in Japan!

Cheers!
Jeff