A number of high ranking Japanese market officials visited the region recently to meet with a select group of Hunter wineries to further business relationships in response to a successful wine trade mission to Japan held last December.

Japan Post Service Company Limited has now joined together with Japan’s Yu-Net Service Company Limited and Australia Post to provide a platform to link the Japanese wine markets to Australian suppliers.

Mohammad Khan, International Business Development Manager with Australia Post, delivered the Future Business Model Presentation at the Pokolbin meeting, along with an ongoing marketing schedule due to start in June 2008.

Haruko Takachi, Deputy General Manager of the Japan Post Service Logistics Business Division, says she is very happy to get involved and is looking forward to working together to make this business successful.

Michiko Furakawa, President of Yu-Net Service Company Limited, and Vice President Go Hanzawa also expressed a deep dedication to the success of the venture for all partners.

Pokolbin Brothers Wines Managing Director, Glen Thomson, a member of the initial Wine Mission to Japan, says he is honored by the special visit and the high level of commitment clearly demonstrated.

Mr. Thomson has already shipped wine to customers in Japan under the newly formed initiative and is confident that success in Japan will continue to develop under the program as partnerships further strengthen.

He plans to return to Japan and continue participation in further wine marketing events within the new business model.