Kao Corporation (4452) Stock Price

Kao manufactures and sells products primarily through its Consumer Products business and Chemical business. The company also operates related service businesses. The Kao Group consists of 111 subsidiaries and 7 affiliated companies.

The Consumer Products business is divided into four segments: Hygiene & Living Care, Health & Beauty Care, Life Care, and Cosmetics. Key domestic companies include Kao Group Customer Marketing, Nivea Kao, and Kanebo Cosmetics.

Internationally, major operating companies include Kao (China) Investment Co., Ltd., Kao USA Inc., and Kao Germany GmbH. These companies handle manufacturing and sales of products in their respective regions.

In the Chemical business, key domestic companies are Kao Quaker and Showa Kogyosha. Internationally, Kao Chemicals Europe and Kao Corporation, S.A. operate in this segment, manufacturing and selling chemical products.

Other business operations include Kao Logistics, which provides logistics and related services. Through its domestic and international operations, Kao offers a diverse range of products and services.

Kao is advancing product development from an ESG perspective under its vision of "realizing a prosperous world of symbiosis." Building on its corporate philosophy "Kao Way," the company has operated in the fields of cleanliness, beauty, and health for over 130 years. In 2009, Kao issued an "Environmental Declaration," and in 2019 announced its ESG strategy "Kirei Lifestyle Plan," strengthening its commitment to achieving a sustainable society.

Kao's long-term management strategy aims to become a "globally valued company" by 2030. On the environmental front, the company targets carbon negativity; on the social front, it is advancing personalization while strengthening governance. Guided by the principle of "Maximum with minimum"—creating maximum value with minimum resources—Kao is pursuing sustainable growth.

The medium-term management plan "K27" uses ROIC and EVA as primary indicators, targeting improved profit margins and market share. The company is strengthening global expansion in skin protection and cosmetics businesses, while promoting growth in overseas markets within the chemicals business. Cash flows from stable revenue areas are being allocated to investments in growth driver segments.

In the post-COVID economic environment, Kao remains focused on addressing social challenges. The company is transitioning to a circular business model and promoting waste-free product development. With structural reform and growth strategy as pillars, Kao is advancing globalization and implementing strategic portfolio management. Through M&A and business restructuring, the company is pursuing long-term value creation.