The sticking point for Saji, whose grandfather started the firm in 1899, was apparently control.

FORBES: Nobutada Saji's Big Deal is Called Off

Now Saji will be under pressure to find new ways to expand, particularly outside of Japan.

FORBES: Nobutada Saji's Big Deal is Called Off

Suntory President Nobutada Saji said Tuesday he wanted to conclude an agreement with Kirin by the end of the year.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Suntory, the food and beverage giant run by Japanese billionaire Nobutada Saji, has backed away from plans to merge with rival brewer Kirin.

FORBES: Nobutada Saji's Big Deal is Called Off

With the country's ale market shrinking, it's no surprise that the nation's biggest brewer, Kirin, wants to absorb smaller rival Suntory, owned by Nobutada Saji, Japan's eighth-richest man.

FORBES: Beer And Bailouts