The IR Award is presented with the aim of identifying and commending companies that have achieved outstanding results in relation to IR, for example by demonstrating an in-depth understanding of the purpose of IR, working proactively to implement IR activities, or being highly recognized by capital market participants. At this year's IR Awards (which were being held for the 24th time), the Best IR Award was presented on the basis of assessment of 315 publicly-listed companies that are members of the JIRA.

The decision to present the Best IR Award to Kao Corporation this year was based on Kao's high performance in the following areas:
･Kao's top management is spearheading efforts to enhance the level of IR.
･The President's sincere attitude in his dialogue is highly praised.
･Q&A information from presentations and meetings, attended by the top management, are made accessible at the company's website.
･In 2019 Kao announced its ESG strategy and clarified its policy to position ESG as a core issue of the management intended to enhance corporate value.
･By conducting dialogues with capital markets, the company is building its recognition.
･Kao is also proactively making efforts to make its corporate governance structure better understood through dialogues led by the executive officer in charge of legal department.

The Kao Group is making a major shift to ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) –driven management as a new challenge to build a foundation enabling sustainable growth toward 2025, 2030, and beyond. As a first step, Kao announced its ESG strategy, the Kirei Lifestyle Plan, on April 22, 2019, and is fully undertaking activities to implement this plan. Kao will proactively, fairly and timely disclose information and deepen dialogue with a wide range of stakeholders including investors and analysts to build understanding for its activities.

Kao creates high-value-added products that enrich the lives of consumers around the world. Through its portfolio of over 20 leading brands such as Attack, Bioré, Goldwell, Jergens, John Frieda, Kanebo, Laurier, Merries and Molton Brown, Kao is part of the everyday lives of people in Asia, Oceania, North America and Europe. Combined with its chemical division, which contributes to a wide range of industries, Kao generates about 1,500 billion yen in annual sales. Kao employs about 33,000 people worldwide and has 130 years of history in innovation. Please visit the Kao Group website for updated information.