Kao is a Japanese consumer goods company that produces and sells personal care, household cleaning, laundry, and food products in over 60 countries.
Founded in 1887 in Tokyo by Tomiro Nagase as a manufacturer of facial soap.
In the 1920s, Kao introduced a line of shampoos and soaps.
In the 1960s, the company expanded to international markets, establishing subsidiaries in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Kao acquired several brands, including John Frieda, Molton Brown, and Goldwell, in the 2000s and 2010s.
Currently, Kao is one of the largest consumer goods companies in Asia.
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Kao's corporate philosophy is the 'Kao Way', which emphasizes the importance of integrity, proactivity, and creativity in business operations.
Kao products are available in retail stores, supermarkets, and online marketplaces in over 60 countries. You can check the Kao website for a list of retailers and distributors near you.
Kao is committed to eliminating animal testing in its product development and has not conducted animal testing since the mid-1980s. However, some Kao brands may still be sold in markets where animal testing is required by law.
Some popular Kao products in Japan include the Merit gentle scrub facial soap, Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence sunscreen, and Essential Damage Care shampoo.
Kao is known for its focus on research and development, with a dedicated R&D center and collaborations with universities and institutions. Kao is also committed to sustainability and has set a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.