News

Kao accelerates growth strategy for Consumer Care Business following Bondi Sands acquisition

Kao Consolidated Financial Results for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2023

Kao Rated Triple-A for Climate Change, Water Security, and Forests for Fourth Consecutive Year by CDP

Kao drives global growth strategy by expanding presence of British luxury brand Molton Brown in Asia

Kao establishes “Life-in-Harmony Foundation” to address social challenges

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2023

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2023

Kao to Acquire Bondi Sands

Kao Corporation announced today that it and its wholly owned subsidiaries Kao Australia Pty. Limited and Kao USA Inc., have signed an agreement to acquire the Bondi Sands brands via the acquisition of Bondi Sands Australia Pty Ltd and related Bondi Sands companies.

Kao appoints Christian Melcher Chief Marketing Officer for its Global Salon Division

Kao today announced the appointment of industry expert Christian Melcher as their new Global Chief Marketing Officer for their Salon business.

Kao Releases the Kao Integrated Report 2023

Kao Releases the Kao Integrated Report 2023

Kao accelerates initiatives to reduce plastic use and pioneers technology for film-to film recycling

Kao has published a roadmap outlining key strategies and milestones of the company’s mission to achieve net zero plastic packaging waste by 2040 and negative waste by 2050. As part of this commitment, Kao is accelerating its reduction and recycling efforts, including new sustainable packaging initiatives in its three AEMEA Business Sectors.

Kao further accelerates actions towards its ESG Strategy – the Kirei Lifestyle Plan

Kao released its Kao Sustainability Report 2023 on the progress of its ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy—the Kirei Lifestyle Plan.

Molton Brown launch first ever aromatherapy collection for hotel partners

Molton Brown is introducing Reviving Rosemary, the British fragrance brand’s first ever aromatherapy collection, featuring a new design to elevate the experience for both guests and hotel partners.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023

Goldwell introduces Topchic Zero

Kao's professional Salon brand Goldwell, a global leader in hair color innovation, introduces Topchic Zero, the newest addition to the iconic permanent in-salon color, Topchic. The conscious, caring and ammonia-free formula allows stylists and consumers to feel good about more than just the color result.

Molton Brown is promoting sustainable packaging solutions with launch of new Infinite Refill Bottle

As part of their ESG commitment and continuous efforts to reduce the use of plastic packaging, British fragrance makers Molton Brown are launching a made-to-last, refillable Bath & Shower Gel bottle collection.

Accelerating Efforts to Reach Carbon Zero by 2040 and Carbon Negative by 2050

In 2022, Kao took steps to accelerate its decarbonization efforts, including the following actions: used internal carbon price, the cost of which was increased in 2021, and developed products contributing to CO2 reduction and formulated new medium- and long-term strategies for reducing Scope 3 emissions related to procurement and use of raw materials.

Kao expands Consumer Care portfolio in EMEA with launch of Bioré UV

Kao is expanding its portfolio in EMEA with the launch of its first facial care product with UV protection in the region. Bioré UV Aqua Rich is launching at Superdrug in the UK and selected retailers in the DACH region starting this week, with France and Benelux following in early summer.

Kao sets the direction for future growth in the AEMEA region

Kao announces further steps to strengthen its business in the regions Americas as well as Europe, Middle East and Africa by creating a new pan-regional organizational structure for its Functions and Operations.

Kao launches Space Shampoo Sheet, a sheet-type dry shampoo for earth and beyond

On April 3, 2023, Kao Corporation will launch sales of a new dry shampoo called Space Shampoo Sheet. The product will be offered in limited quantities on Rakuten Ichiba, one of Japan's largest e-commerce shopping malls.

Kao recognized as Supplier Engagement Leader by CDP for the sixth consecutive year

Kao Corporation has been recognized, for the sixth consecutive year, as a Supplier Engagement leader for its initiatives in reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change across its supply chain through the Supplier Engagement Rating, organized by CDP, an international nonprofit organization that drives companies and governments to reduce their greenhouse emissions.

Kao included in the World’s Most Ethical Companies® List for a record 17th consecutive year

The Ethisphere Institute, a leading US think-tank, has named the Kao Corporation one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. Kao is the only Asian company to have made the list every year since Ethisphere began its ranking in 2007.

Kao relaunches professional hair care brand KERASILK as standalone masterbrand in the global Kao Salon Division portfolio

KERASILK, under the Goldwell umbrella of brands for over 40 years, is relaunching as a standalone masterbrand of Kao Salon Division, aimed at leveraging the brand’s growth potential and expanding the retail and consumer base of the Salon business.

Kao joins new international collaboration for an animal-free science worldwide

Kao and more than 35 cosmetics manufacturers and suppliers, industry associations and animal protection organizations announced the launch of the International Collaboration on Cosmetics Safety (ICCS) to ensure animal-free methods are accepted and used by everyone involved in cosmetics safety testing.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022

Kao Selected for Inclusion in the 2023 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index for the 5th Year Running

Kao Corporation has been selected for inclusion in the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI), marking the fifth consecutive year it has been included since 2019.

Kao Rated Triple-A for Climate Change, Water Security, and Forests for Third Consecutive Year by CDP

Leading international nonprofit organization, CDP, has included Kao Corporation in its prestigious ‘A List’ across three categories for the third year in a row. Kao received the highest triple-A score for its sustainability initiatives involving climate change, forests, and water security.

More than a haircut: Study by Kao reveals how salon visits pay off on personal wellbeing

With the survey, Kao is launching a campaign to strengthen the salon industry that also includes a mini-documentary produced for Kao by BBC StoryWorks, showcasing how a hairdresser’s craftsmanship creates confidence – both for the stylist and the client.

Mark Johnson appointed President Cosmetics Business AEMEA and Executive Officer joining Kao’s global management board

Kao has announced changes in the leadership of its global Cosmetics Business. As of January 1, 2023, Mark Johnson, currently Global President Molton Brown is appointed President Cosmetics Business AEMEA, taking on additional responsibility for the Kanebo and E’quipe Businesses in the Americas and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) markets.

Kao joins Geno as Founding Member of $120M+*1 Venture to Globally Scale Palm Oil Alternative 

Today, sustainable materials leader Genomatica (Geno) welcomes Kao Corporation to its venture to scale and commercialize plant-based alternatives to palm kernel oil, joining Unilever as a founding member.

More sustainability and a new understanding of beauty: Kao presents hair care brand Guhl in a completely new way

Under the motto „Genuinely Familiar“, Kao is presenting its hair care brand Guhl in a completely new way.

Kao joins The Climate Pledge – a commitment co-founded by Amazon and Global Optimism

Underlining its global commitment to reduce its carbon emissions to be net-zero by 2040, Kao signed The Climate Pledge, a commitment co-founded by online retailer Amazon and environmental advocacy group Global Optimism.

Kao and the City of Science Darmstadt join forces to deliver donations to Ukrainian twin city Uzhhorod

Kao and the City of Science Darmstadt are continuing their support for Ukraine by sending diapers, sanitary napkins, and hair care products to Darmstadt’s twin city Uzhhorod in Ukraine.

Kao appoints Guido Kirchhoff as new President Functions Operations EMEA

Kao announced that effective July 1st, Guido Kirchhoff has been appointed President Functions Operations for its EMEA Consumer Products organization.

Kao Releases Progress Report on its ESG Strategy – the Kirei Lifestyle Plan

Kao released this year’s progress report on its ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) strategy “Kirei Lifestyle Plan”.

Michael Cramer appointed Vice President Consumer Care Business EMEA

Kao has announced a new leadership team for its EMEA Consumer Care Business which includes renowned brands such as John Frieda and Guhl. With these changes Kao aims to be better able to address its key growth strategies for its Consumer Care Business which include growth in new channels, new categories, and new markets.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2022

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2022

Kao supports start-up "talking hands" with iconic hair care brand Guhl

With a special edition of the iconic shampoo bottles of its hair care brand Guhl, Kao supports the Frankfurt-based start-up "talking hands", which aims to overcome language barriers and promote inclusive communication.

Kao tackles sustainability with online gaming tool for Salons

Kao is reinforcing its commitment to sustainability in the salon industry. To address the issue of tackling climate change in its sector, Kao’s professional salon business, Kao Salon Division, has opted for an out-of-the box approach to educate salon owners in their bid to become more environmentally friendly.

Cristian Canthal appointed Managing Director Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic at Kao Salon Division

Kao Salon Division appoints Cristian Canthal as Managing Director for the Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic region. The experienced salon industry professional will take over operations at the Darmstadt location on 1 June 2022 and will report to Isana Kontsevaya, Vice President, Commercial, Salon, EMEA.

Accelerating Efforts Toward Carbon Zero by 2040 and Carbon Negative By 2050

By implementing Innovation in Reduction and Recycling with regards to carbon dioxide (CO2), the Kao Corporation is striving toward the realization of a decarbonized society. It aims to be carbon zero by 2040 and carbon negative by 2050 in its business activities.

Kao champions a more inclusive approach to beauty with the launch of Wakati

Diversifying its EMEA portfolio in the hair care space, Kao is launching a new brand in the UK: Wakati, designed with and for women with type three to four hair.

Kao Included in the World’s Most Ethical Companies® List for a Record 16th Consecutive Year

The Ethisphere Institute, a leading US think-tank, has named the Kao Corporation one of the World's Most Ethical Companies. Kao is the only Asian company to have made the list every year since Ethisphere began its ranking in 2007.

Kao Response to Ukraine Emergency

Kao is making a donation of €500,000 through UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, with plans to donate baby diapers, personal hygiene and sanitary products for use both in Ukraine and by refugees who have been displaced outside Ukraine.

Kao among 36 industry players to form the EcoBeautyScore Consortium in a breakthrough initiative to enable more sustainable consumer choices

Kao is one of 36 cosmetics and personal care companies as well as professional associations who have joined forces to form the EcoBeautyScore Consortium, aiming to develop an industry-wide environmental impact assessment and scoring system for cosmetics products.

Kao Recognized as Supplier Engagement Leader by CDP for the Fifth Consecutive Year

Kao Corporation has been recognized, for the fifth consecutive year, as a Supplier Engagement leader for its initiatives in reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change across its supply chain by CDP, an international non-profit organization that drives companies and governments to reduce their greenhouse emissions.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021

Kao is selected for inclusion in the 2022 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index

Kao, a leading manufacturer of personal care, household, and cosmetics products, has been selected for inclusion in the 2022 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI), marking the fourth consecutive year it has been included since 2019.

Kao expands international representation by appointing US and European members to its Global Management Team

Kao has announced two appointments to its Global Management Team. Karen Frank, President, Consumer Care, AEMEA, and Dominic Pratt, President, Salon, Global are appointed Executive Officers effective January 1st, 2022.

Kao receives Triple A score by CDP

Leading international nonprofit organization CDP has included Kao Corporation in its prestigious ‘A List’ across three categories for the second year in a row for its sustainability initiatives involving climate change, forests, and water security.

Kao products designated for space missions

Two products from Kao will be flying into space soon: The Space Laundry Sheet for removing dirt, stains and odors from clothing and the 3D Space Shampoo Sheet for cleaning scalp and hair of dirt and sebum without using water.

Kao achieves climate neutral operations in the UK and Germany

Today, Kao announced that its production and administrative facilities in the UK and Germany will be climate neutral by 2022. Whereas the UK facilities have already achieved this goal for the year 2021, the German operations will follow on January 1st, 2022.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the nine months ended September 30

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the nine months ended September 30, 2021

Kao revises its Corporate Slogan and Company Logo

Kao Corporation revised its corporate slogan, which was established in 2009: "Enriching lives, in harmony with nature" with the new slogan: "Kirei—Making Life Beautiful." The company logo has been revised accordingly and carries the new corporate slogan.

Kao recognized as gold winner at 2021 German Packaging Award

Kao has received a Gold Award at this year’s German Packaging Award, recognizing the company’s innovation in the category „Functionality & Convenience“.

Kao commits to better sorting and higher-quality recycling rates for packaging in the EU with membership of the Digital Watermarks Initiative HolyGrail 2.0

As part of the company’s ESG strategy and Zero Waste mission, Kao has joined the Digital Watermarks Initiative HolyGrail 2.0 with the aim to support better sorting and higher-quality recycling rates for packaging in the EU.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2021

Consolidated financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2021

Kao Group Revamps its Corporate Philosophy - the Kao Way

Kao Corporation has revamped the corporate philosophy - the Kao Way - to realize Kao Group's vision and maximize the vitality of every Kao member.

Kao’s iconic British brand Molton Brown celebrates 50 years of delivering sustainable luxury

Kao celebrates 50 years of its most recognised British brand, Molton Brown. Founded in London in 1971, and acquired by Kao in 2005, Molton Brown has evolved into a global brand across cities, luxury hotels and airports in over 80 countries, spending the last 50 years delivering quality, innovative and luxurious products to cater to the needs of its international consumers.

Molton Brown introduce new botanical hair care collection

Inspired by the brand's heritage of creating natural hair care in their original 1970s Mayfair salon, Molton Brown are following in the footsteps of their pioneering founders, whose forward-thinking, holistic approach to hair styling was delivered with a conscious care for the environment. As Molton Brown celebrate their 50th year, they are returning to their past and combining sustainable ingredients with innovative technology.

Kao Salon Division announces new president - Dominic Pratt to succeed Cory Couts

Kao Salon Division announces that Dominic Pratt, formerly Vice President R&D, Skin Care Products Research, will succeed Cory Couts, Global President, Kao Salon Division in his role leading the Goldwell, KMS, Oribe and VARIS brands worldwide effective September 1, 2021.

Kao Releases Progress Report on its ESG Strategy – the Kirei Lifestyle Plan

Kao has released this year’s progress report on its ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) strategy “Kirei Lifestyle Plan”. The report presents major updates, initiatives and achievements for the total of 19 Key Leadership Actions set out in the Kirei Lifestyle Plan to achieve a sustainable and desirable lifestyle.

Kao Releases the Kao Integrated Report 2021

This year's report outlines Kao's commitment to "Sustainability as the only path" for solving the increasingly serious issues that are affecting society, which is the vision of the Kao Group Mid-term Plan 2025 (K25), launched in 2021, as well as providing an overview of K25.

Kao Salon Division is launching VARIS in EMEA

With the launch of VARIS, the Kao Salon Division is entering a new business segment in the EMEA region and now offering a collection of professional styling tools designed for stylists by stylists.

Kao is aiming to reduce its CO2 Emissions to zero by 2040, and to be carbon negative by 2050

Kao has set new targets for realizing a decarbonized society and is aiming to reduce its carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to zero by 2040, and become a carbon negative company by 2050.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2021

Consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2021

Kao starts cooperation with sustainability start-up TRASH2TREASURE for the recycling of packaging materials

Kao and TRASH2TREASURE launch innovative pilot project to upcycle unused packaging materials. With Kao as the first external industry partner, TRASH2TREASURE produces keeper boxes from unused PET bottles for the Guhl solid shampoos.

Kao is driving sustainability in the salon industry

Leading up to this year’s Earth Day, Kao Corporation is reinforcing its commitment to sustainability in the salon industry

50 years of Molton Brown – the sustainability journey

In recognition of the brand’s 50th anniversary, Molton Brown have issued their ongoing commitments to the planet and the brand’s sustainability journey

KMS launches Solid Shampoo Bars, bringing Kao Salon Divion's increased commitment to sustainability to life

KMS, the professional Kao salon brand that has been synonymous with creative passion for style for over forty years, introduces three professional Solid Shampoo Bars.

Kao included in the World’s Most Ethical Companies® List for a record 15th consecutive year

The Ethisphere Institute, a leading US think-tank, has named Kao Corporation one of the World's Most Ethical Companies. Kao is the only Asian company to have made the list every year since Ethisphere began its ranking in 2007.

Kao recognized as Supplier Engagement Leader by CDP for fourth year in a row

Kao has been recognized, for the fourth consecutive year, as a Supplier Engagement Leader for its initiatives in reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change across its supply chain by international non-profit organization CDP.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the year ended December 31, 2020

Consolidated financial results for the year ended December 31, 2020

Kao selected for inclusion in the 2021 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index

Kao Corporation has been selected for inclusion in the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI), which identifies companies that have demonstrated outstanding performance in the area of gender reporting and measures to advance gender equality.

Kao announces new mid-term plan K25

Kao announces new mid-term plan K25

Molton Brown launches new Signature Dispenser reducing waste and excess spending

As part of their ongoing sustainable journey, British luxury brand Molton Brown introduces their new Signature Dispenser for Bath, Body, Hand and Hair Care collections.

Kao receives Triple A score by CDP

Kao has been selected for inclusion in the A List for climate change, forest, and water by CDP, a leading international NPO.

Molton Brown presents current dispensing programme assortment – new design to be launched soon

In their efforts to reduce plastic consumption and the brand’s environmental footprint, British luxury fragrance experts Molton Brown present their refillable dispensing programme assortment and announce a new design to be revealed soon.

Kao named to the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for seventh consecutive year

Kao Corporation has been selected for inclusion in the 2020 Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) and Dow Jones Sustainability Asia Pacific Index (DJSI Asia Pacific), among the world's most renowned socially responsible investment (SRI) indices.

Molton Brown launches new Hand Sanitiser Gels

Molton Brown is launching a collection of Hand Sanitiser Gels in three of its most iconic scents, allowing consumers to turn a necessary ritual into a true Molton Brown experience.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the nine months ended September 30, 2020

Consolidated financial results for the nine months ended September 30, 2020.

Kao Salon Virtual Experience celebrated with almost 20,000 hairdressers from around the world

For the first time in the history of Kao Salon, the Kao Salon Global Experience event took place digitally. Almost 20,000 stylists from around the globe took the chance to experience 48 hours with artistry and creativity online.

Kao focuses on sustainable packaging and innovative products with its iconic haircare brand Guhl

With the introduction of solid shampoos for its iconic haircare brand Guhl, Kao is continuing its journey to implement the company’s sustainability goals.

Kao Salon Virtual Experience celebrated with almost 20,000 hairdressers from around the world

For the first time in the history of Kao Salon, the Kao Salon Global Experience event took place digitally. Almost 20,000 stylists from around the globe took the chance to experience 48 hours with artistry and creativity online.

Kao appoints Yoshihiro Hasebe as Representative Director, President and CEO

Today, Kao Corporation announces that its Board of Directors resolved the appointment of Director, Chair, and changes of President and Chief Executive Officer and Representative Director as of January 1, 2021.

Kao Austria puts new photovoltaic system into operation

Kao Austria has finished constructions on a photovoltaic system on its office rooftop in Linz. A total of 180 solar modules has been installed, collecting twice as much energy as is annually required by the team.

Kao supports industry-wide project piloting a reusable transportation box in Germany

With the aim of reducing packaging in the supply chain between manufacturers and retail partners, Kao has joined the industry-wide project “Smart-Box” facilitated by GS1 Germany, a specialist organization for business standards across industries and countries.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2020

Consolidated financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2020.

International award-winning stylist, Angelo Seminara, signs on as global ambassador for Goldwell

Goldwell is pleased to introduce their new Global Ambassador, Angelo Seminara. As one of the most globally celebrated hairstylists, Seminara will create limited-edition collections and inspire innovation for Goldwell’s products and services.

Molton Brown NEW Partnership with Loop

To build on our sustainable journey, we’re excited to announce our new partnership with Loop – a ground-breaking global shopping platform that reduces waste and single-use plastic

Kao honored for supporting work and family balance

For the second time in a row, Kao Germany has been honored for its strategically designed family and life phase conscious company policy.

The Refill Revolution: Kao’s efforts and innovations on plastic reduction featured in film series by Cosmetics Europe and BBC StoryWorks

Kao has partnered with Cosmetics Europe for the BBC StoryWorks film series “Essentials For Daily Life”, which takes a look at how the cosmetics sector is enhancing people’s lives, supporting the planet and improving products.

Molton Brown starts Refillable Programme

As part of their dedicated efforts to protect our planet, Molton Brown is introducing a new Refillable Programme, with the launch of a reusable glass bottle and Hand Refill collection.

Kao releases consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2020

Consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2020.

Kao releases progress actions on its ESG Strategy, the Kirei Lifestyle Plan

Kao Corporation releases progress actions on its ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) strategy, the Kirei Lifestyle Plan, which was first announced in April 2019.

Kao Salon Division announces Isana Kontsevaya to lead EMEA region

Kao Salon Division has announced the appointment of Isana Kontsevaya to the role of Vice President, Salon Commercial, EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) and member of the Global Executive Salon Leadership Team.

Kao Salon Division announces Kao Salon Industry Recovery Initiative

Kao Salon Division, home of the Goldwell, KMS and Oribe brands, introduces the Kao Salon Industry Recovery Initiative, solely focused on helping salons recover and rebuild as they emerge from the COVID-19 crisis.

Kao supports pharmacies and hospitals during corona crisis

From its biggest site in Europe, Kao will support the state of Hesse and the city of Darmstadt with measures to contain the coronavirus epidemic in the coming weeks.