Kao Corporation

Kao Corporation is a global consumer goods and chemical company founded in Japan in 1887. The company operates across five business fields: Hygiene and Living Care, Health and Beauty Care, Life Care, Cosmetics, and Chemicals. Kao is known for its strong heritage of innovation and its corporate philosophy of always walking the right path. The company aims to provide care and enrichment for the life of all people and the planet, with a portfolio of iconic brands such as Goldwell, Molton Brown, Oribe, and Guhl. Kao's EMEA division covers 13 locations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, offering a wide range of products and services.

Kao Corporation serves a diverse audience, including consumers who use its personal care, beauty, and hygiene products, as well as professionals in the hair care industry through brands like Goldwell and Oribe. The company also caters to businesses in need of chemical products for industrial applications. Additionally, Kao is an attractive employer for individuals seeking careers in research, development, marketing, and sustainability, with a focus on inclusive and value-driven work environments.

Kao stands out for its long-standing commitment to innovation and sustainability, rooted in its Japanese heritage. The company's ESG strategy, the Kirei Lifestyle Plan, emphasizes sustainable practices and responsible product manufacturing. Kao's diverse portfolio spans from consumer goods to industrial chemicals, making it a versatile player in the market. With a strong emphasis on research and development, Kao continuously introduces cutting-edge formulas and packaging, as seen in its hair care and beauty brands. The company's global presence, combined with its local focus in the EMEA region, allows it to adapt to regional needs while maintaining a global vision.

Kao Corporation operates in the highly competitive consumer goods and beauty industry, competing with global giants such as Procter & Gamble, Unilever, and L'Oréal. In the professional hair care segment, Kao's brands like Goldwell and Oribe compete with established names like Wella and Redken. In the cosmetics and skincare market, Kao's brands face competition from companies like Shiseido and Estée Lauder. Additionally, Kao's chemical division competes with specialty chemical companies like BASF and Dow. Despite the intense competition, Kao differentiates itself through its unique blend of Eastern and Western business practices and its focus on sustainability.