Shining Through a Legendary Beer Brand

Sapporo, Japan’s oldest beer brand and top-selling Asian beer in the U.S., partnered with Red Door Interactive to evolve its image and connect with a new generation of drinkers.

Explore the partnership
A black-and-white image shows three friends laughing and holding canned Sapporo drinks on a city street at night. A glowing yellow star overlays the center.
The Opportunity

Though recognized as a premium beer, Sapporo’s U.S. brand perception remained confined to sushi-bar settings. The brand sought to expand relevance and make Sapporo the unexpected choice for any social occasion.

The Insight

By identifying a key audience of 'Rising Stars,' social, style-conscious consumers who value distinctive experiences, Red Door positioned Sapporo as the beer that elevates every moment.

Campaign Concept

Building a Distinctive Platform

Red Door developed the 'Shine Through' campaign, anchored in Sapporo’s neon star, to help the brand stand out beyond its traditional settings and connect with modern, experience-driven drinkers.

Three smartphones display Instagram ads by Sapporo Beer. Each ad features celebratory images and messages: "Be Brilliant," a star, and "'Tis the Season to Shine."
A group of people enjoy a picnic in a forest at night, with string lights and a glowing star above. Text reads "Shine Through." Sapporo beer can in the foreground.
Tall silver can of Sapporo Premium Beer, adorned with a gold star and barley motifs. The can glistens with condensation, set against a dark background.
Visual Direction

Illuminating the Ritual of Sharing

Imagery paired Sapporo’s signature silver-and-black aesthetic with black-and-white photography and illuminated moments, creating a visual language that captured the sophistication and theatricality of sharing a Sapporo with friends.

Laptop displaying Sapporo beer website. Two women enjoy a meal with drinks, smiling. Text reads “Elevate the Evening” with a relaxed, social vibe.
Close-up of a hand holding a phone, displaying an Instagram post. The post shows a smiling woman with glasses, a Sapporo beer, and the text "Shine Through."
People on pool floats enjoy a movie under string lights. A glowing star frames "Shine Bright." Sapporo beer can in the foreground. Cozy, festive vibe.
Brand Expansion

Expanding Beyond Expectations

The campaign extended Sapporo’s identity into a broader range of settings, from nightlife to casual gatherings, inviting consumers to see Sapporo as the premium choice that brings distinction to any occasion.

Magazine-style layout showing Sapporo design concepts with typography, color palettes, and branding elements. Includes black, white, and gray tones.
A woman smiles broadly in front of a glowing star-shaped neon light, conveying joy and excitement. The image is a sponsored Instagram post.
Open booklet displaying a branding campaign style guide titled "Shine Through." Features black and white imagery with bold graphics and text.
Key Metrics

Let’s build something greater together.

Ready to start a partnership built on clarity, collaboration, and real results?