Japan’s diverse dessert drink scene is set to welcome a new international favorite: Icees. The iconic American frozen beverage, which has been a staple in U.S. movie theaters since the 1960s, will make its long-awaited debut in Japan next month.
Icees, often confused with 7-Eleven’s Slurpee, actually predate the popular convenience store drink. While both are carbonated, slushy beverages available in a variety of sweet flavors, Icee is the original brand. 7-Eleven’s Slurpees were initially sold under the Icee brand as part of a licensing deal with the company, which was founded in Southern California.
Now, thanks to Tokyo-based supplier Ozax, Icee will be available to Japanese consumers for the first time. Ozax will serve as the official distributor of Icee in Japan, introducing the frozen treat to moviegoers at select Toho Cinemas locations in Tokyo starting December 6. The theaters involved in the initial launch include Hibiya, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Roppongi Hills, and Fuchu, with plans for broader distribution in the future.
In keeping with Japan’s unique tastes, Icee’s classic cherry flavor will be absent from the initial Japanese lineup. Instead, the familiar red Icee will feature a strawberry flavor, while the blue raspberry and yellow peach varieties will also be available. Cherry, which is not widely popular in Japanese desserts, has been swapped for a more locally favored fruit, aligning with regional flavor preferences.
The arrival of Icee adds to Japan’s growing collection of innovative dessert drinks, which already includes matcha lattes and exclusive Frappuccino flavors. As Icee makes its way into theaters and other retail spaces, it promises to offer a refreshing, sweet alternative to other quirky beverages, such as Japan’s recently introduced “Drinkable Mayo.”
With Icee now making its debut, Japan is about to experience a taste of one of America’s favorite frozen treats.
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