Kao

Kao was established in 1887 in Japan by Tomiro Nagase as a local toilet soap manufacturer. Until 1954, the company was known as Kao Soap Company, and from 1985, it has been known as Kao Corporation. The name is derived from the company's first product, Kao Sekken soap. Kao's mission is to satisfy people globally with high-quality products and enhance their quality of life.

In 1890, Kao Sekken soap, produced with high quality, rapidly gained popularity in the market. In 1911, crude glycerin was introduced, and in 1928, ECONA (Edible Coconut Oil of Nagase), an edible oil, was launched. In 1932, the company introduced the Kao shampoo in Japan. In 1938, it produced Excelin laundry powder. In 1951, the company introduced Kao Kona Sentaku, a synthetic detergent, which played an important role in the spread of electric washing machines. In 1958, the production of Wonderful-K, a kitchen detergent, began in powder form and later in liquid form.

In the 1960s, cleaning products such as Zab and Mypet were introduced. In the 1970s, Merit shampoo was launched. In 1978, Laurier sanitary napkins for women were produced. In the mid-1980s, Bioré, a facial cleanser, was introduced, making skin cleansing easier and more delicate. In 1983, Merries diapers were launched. The new technology used in the production of these diapers ensured the comfort of children. In 1987, Attack product was developed, using biotechnology to provide high cleanliness with a smaller amount of detergent, revolutionizing the market. In 1994, the Aube brand of skincare and makeup products was introduced. In 1997, the Bioré brand entered the U.S. market and quickly gained recognition in Europe and North America.

In the early 2000s, skincare and hair care products such as Jergens Natural Glow and Brilliant Brunette were introduced. In 2013, Merries launched Shun Shuang Tou Qi, a disposable diaper for babies, in the Chinese market. This product was manufactured at a plant in Hefei city, China. The new diapers were distinguished by their added dryness feature and were highly praised by parents. In 2019, the company introduced Attack ZERO laundry detergent, formulated with the ingredient Bio IOS to ensure cleaner and more effective washing. Kao has maintained its leadership position in the global market. In 2020, the MyKirei by KAO brand was launched in the U.S. market, offering new solutions for a healthy life.

The company continues to increase its environmental responsibility and introduces new products and technologies to the market every year, providing people with useful and convenient solutions.