A Japanese Ice Cream Company Apologized for Raising Product Prices

In 2016, a famous Japanese ice cream company publicly apologized to its consumers through a TV commercial — and the reason was surprising. The manufacturer Akagi Nyugyo was responsible for one of the most talked-about commercials of the decade in Japan.

Akagi Nyugyo is known for its popular Garigari-kun ice pops and decided to raise the product’s price for the first time in 25 years. But how big was the increase? The ice cream went from costing 60 to 70 yen.

A Japanese Ice Cream Company Apologized for Raising Product Prices

Even though the adjustment was small, the company treated the change with great seriousness. To announce the increase, Akagi Nyugyo released a one-minute television commercial. In it, the president, the chairman, and several employees appear lined up, wearing company uniforms, and bow toward the camera, symbolizing the moment when this Japanese ice cream company apologized for raising the price of its product.

The gesture represented a sincere apology to consumers for the price adjustment. The video quickly became a cultural phenomenon, being widely shared and discussed on Japanese social media.

Public reaction was very positive, highlighting the company’s respect and transparency. The case has since been frequently cited as an example of good customer relationship practices and how respectful communication can strengthen public trust in a brand.