In Japan, weddings are deeply rooted in refinement and tradition. Among these customs, Hikidemono—the gifts presented by the newlyweds to their guests—serve as an expression of gratitude and elegance.
With the Hikidemono market valued at €1.3 billion, French products have gained increasing popularity. But does an artisanal jam truly belong in this tradition? What criteria do Japanese buyers prioritize, and how does Maison Andrésy’s craftsmanship align with these expectations?
Hikidemono: A Tradition of Elegance and Appreciation
Hikidemono (引出物) is an integral part of Japanese weddings. More than a simple gift, it is a symbol of gratitude and respect, carefully chosen to reflect the couple’s personality and the significance of the occasion.
At a Japanese wedding reception, guests are often greeted with an elegantly arranged bag placed on or beside their seat. This is the Hikidemono (引出物)—a carefully chosen gift from the newlyweds, meant to express gratitude and allow guests to take home a meaningful token of the celebration.
Traditionally, Hikidemono includes tableware, fine home accessories, or gourmet delicacies. Another common element is the Hikigashi, a beautifully packaged box of confections symbolizing the couple’s happiness, shared with their guests through refined sweets.
Some interesting informations about Hikidemono market :
📌 A Structured and Growing Market
- 514,000 weddings celebrated in Japan in 2022
- Average gift budget per wedding: €1,900 to €3,200
- 70 to 80 guests per ceremony
- Total market estimated at ¥200 billion (€1.3 billion)
📌 What does a Hikidemono typically include?
- 45%: Food and beverages (including 25% confectionery and chocolates)
- 30%: Tableware and home accessories
- 15%: Beauty and cosmetic products
📌 One crucial factor in selecting a Hikidemono gift?
The packaging.
82% of Japanese consumers consider the presentation as important as the gift itself, as it reflects the respect shown to the guests.
In recent years, gift catalogues have gained popularity as an alternative to physical gifts. These allow guests to select a present of their choice and have it delivered to their home, ensuring a more personalized and practical experience.
Why Are French Products Preferred for Hikidemono?
French products hold a prominent place in the Hikidemono market, accounting for 8% of the total wedding gift segment in Japan.
📌 Why this strong appeal?
✔️ A mark of quality and authenticity: The “Made in France” label conveys trust and prestige.
✔️ Artisanal and premium products, perfectly aligned with Japanese expectations for refinement.
✔️ A strong storytelling component, enhancing the emotional value of the gift.
✔️ Elegant packaging, a key element in Hikidemono selection.
Hikidemono Market Trends:
- Personalized gifts have seen a +35% growth since 2019.
- The premium segment is growing by +7% annually.
- 67% of Japanese couples prefer luxury foreign brands for their Hikidemono selections.
The demand for premium food gifts is rising, as they offer a memorable sensory experience for guests to enjoy after the wedding.
Why Are Maison Andrésy’s Jams Ideal for Hikidemono and Hikigashi ?
Since 1952, Maison Andrésy has been committed to preserving traditional French artisanal techniques, earning recognition from prestigious brands such as Fauchon and Ladurée, as well as renowned french chefs such as Paul Bocuse, Lenôtre, George Blanc, or even luxury hotels and fine dining establishments, from 4* hotels to Palaces, in France and all over the world.
But how does an artisanal jam fit into the Hikidemono tradition?
What Sets Maison Andrésy Apart in the Japanese Market:
✔️ Traditional copper-kettle cooking, ensuring exceptional quality.
✔️ Refined packaging designed to meet Japanese expectations, featuring understated elegance, subtle gold accents, and individual serving formats.
✔️ Customization options, crucial in this market—allowing for personalized messages and limited-edition collections.
✔️ Unique and delicate flavors, offering guests an exclusive tasting experience.
Two Signature Creations for Wedding Gifts:
LOVE Strawberry, Passion Fruit & Rose Petals
🔹 A delicate and refined jam, symbolizing romance and elegance.
The Discovery Gift Box – 5 Mini Jars
🔹 A curated selection of our finest flavors, designed to offer a unique gourmet experience.
Experience This Selection of Maison Andrésy for Hikidemono ad Hikigashi at Foodex Tokyo
📍 Maison Andrésy will be exhibiting at Foodex Tokyo from March 11 to 14, booth E3 Z27 – Sweet and Snacks zone
Choosing the perfect Hikidemono is a significant decision. We invite you to discover our exclusive creations, experience a tasting session, and discuss your specific needs in person.
Why Visit Our Booth at Foodex Tokyo 2025 ?
✔️ Exclusive tasting sessions, available only at Foodex.
✔️ An opportunity to engage directly with our team and explore how our products can enhance your Hikidemono offering.
✔️ The chance to pre-order limited edition collections tailored to your clientele’s expectations.
Guillaume Frossard is the member of our team that will welcome you at FOODEX Tokyo 2025
From the 11 to 14th of March, He will be on the Sweet and Snack zone of the meeting, booth E3 – Z27
Be free to contact him before the exhibition to reserve samples or a private meeting on his Linkedin profil here. or by email here