0809RV3500

Printed in Japan
IPlease visit Yakults Website at
http://www.yakult.co.jp
for more information on our company.
YAKULT HONSHA CO., LTD.
1-19 Higashi Shimbashi 1-chome, Minato-ku
Tokyo 105-8660, Japan
Telephone: +81-3-3574-8960
Over more than 70 years of enormous changes in its business environment,
Yakult has continuously adopted new perspectives and evolved while never
forgetting its corporate roots.
That adaptability has been a constant in everything we, as a company
that contributes to human health, have accomplished since our earliest
lactobacilli R&D and through the development of our food, cosmetics, and
pharmaceutical businesses, and is fundamental to our current commitment
to help solve global and social environmental problems.
Our mission at Yakult is to determine what must be preserved, what must
give way to something new amid changing times, and continue evolving
step by step to protect human health throughout the world, the goal of
Minoru Shirota, our founder.
Our corporate slogan, In order for people to be healthy, everything around
them must also be healthy. incorporates the idea of considering the health
of the global environment while contributing to the health and happiness
of people throughout the world in all of our business activities.
Continuously Evolving Yakult
The six colored lines symbolize DNA and express our commitment to honor our roots and maintain them as an important, ongoing part of our business.
CSR
Research &
Development
Analysis
and
Testing Foods and
Beverages
Production
Delivery
Cosmetics
Pharmaceuticals
Direct
Sales
Overseas
Business
With Shirota-ism at its heart, Yakult
is gaining recognition throughout
the world
Yakult is developing its business based on
its corporate philosophy. Expressed as,
We contribute to the health and happi-
ness of people around the world through
pursuit of excellence in life science in
general and our research and experience
in microorganisms in particular, this
philosophy is based on Shirota-ism.
Our corporate philosophy addresses
everything from R&D to production, the
delivery of good health to people through-
out the world, and contributions to the
health of the planet and society.
Working in close cooperation with each
other, our individual businesses have all
fully inherited the concept of Shirota-ism,
and are infused with the passionate desire
to contribute to the health and happiness
of people around the world. That desire
has reached around the world, making
Yakult a familiar name across the globe.
Moving forward, in order to maintain
the trust we have earned throughout the
world, we at Yakult will continue to honor
Shirota-ism and the ideas it encompasses.
Yakults beginnings
Minoru Shirota, a Doctor of Medicine,
began his medical studies in 1921 at
Kyoto Imperial University (now Kyoto
University). At the time, Japan had yet to
achieve economic prosperity, and un-
sanitary conditions caused large numbers
of children to die of infectious diseases.
Disturbed by that reality, Dr. Shirota,
while still a medical student set his sights
on the field of preventive medicine, which
aims to help people avoid sickness, and
started down the path of microorganism
research.
In his research, Dr. Shirota discovered that
lactobacilli were effective in suppressing
harmful bacteria within the intestines.
He later became the first to successfully
strengthen and culture a strain of lactobacilli,
which is now known as Lactobacillus casei
strain Shirota.
Dr. Shirota, together with volunteers,
then developed an inexpensive, good-tasting
beverage so that as many people as possible
could benefit from Lactobacillus casei strain
Shirota, which reaches the intestines alive.
That product, launched in 1935, was
Yakult.
Shirota-ismThe root of our
business
Dr. Shirota believed that practicing pre-
ventive medicine was better than treating
illness, that a healthy intestinal tract leads
to a long life, and that as many people as
possible should have easy access to
Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, which
strengthens the intestines. He, therefore,
advocated delivering good health, which
everyone wants, at a price anyone could
afford.
At Yakult, these ideas of Dr. Shirota are
referred to as Shirota-ism and serve as the
root of all of our business activities.
Legacies
With the sincerity embodied in person-to-
person contact, we have traditionally hand
delivered our products to customers. That
approach is rooted in Dr. Shirotas princi-
ples, which emphasize propagation of the
preventive medicine approach and the
idea that a healthy intestinal tract leads to
a healthy, long life, and stress sincerity
and harmony among people. These con-
ceptshome delivery, broadening accept-
ance, sincerity, and harmony among
peoplehave remained constant over the
years and are still a touchstone for Yakult
today.
S H I R O T A - I S M
1. Preventive medicine
Emphasis should be placed on medicine that
prevents illness, rather than on treating illness
once it develops.
2. A healthy intestinal tract leads to
a long life
Human beings take in nutrition through their
intestines.
Making the intestines strong leads to healthy
and long lives.
3. A price anyone can afford
The goal of providing as many people as
possible with easy access to Lactobacillus casei
strain Shirota, which protects the intestines.
Shirota-ism also includes the concepts of
broadening acceptance, home delivery,
harmony among people, and sincerity as
timeless and fundamental aspects of our
business activities.
A price
anyone can
afford
Preventive
medicine
A healthy
intestinal
tract leads to
a long life
Shirota-ism
Then and Now
Good health for as many people as possible
Dr. Minoru Shirota, Yakults founder, focused his career on preventive medicine as a way to protect human health.
After the investment of significant time and effort, he succeeded in strengthening and culturing a lactobacillus that was
beneficial for human health.
Contributing to the health and
happiness of people throughout the world
Development of Yakults business based on a corporate philosophy underpinned by Shirota-ism
Minoru Shirota, M.D.
Former Chairman of Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. and
Director of the Yakult Central Institute for
Microbiology Research
1899 Born in Iida, Nagano Prefecture
1921 Entered the Medical School of Kyoto
Imperial University
1930 Received the degree of Doctor of Medicine
1931 Received license to practice medicine
Dedicating his life to the study of beneficial lactic acid
bacteria and the promotion of preventive medicine,
Dr. Shirota died in 1982 at the age of 82.
Conceptual Depiction of Shirota-ism and
Yakults Business Activities
Shirota-ism
Handed Down from Generation to Generation, Yakults Corporate Philosophy
Probiotics
Global
Company
Yakult Vision
Creating
another
new era
Yakults Corporate Philosophy
We contribute to the health and happiness of people around the
world through pursuit of excellence in life science in general and
our research and experience in microorganisms in particular.
A tireless spirit of inquiry aimed at
protecting human health
With eyes firmly fixed on the future,
Yakult is steadfastly pursuing R&D aimed
at protecting human health.
As one example, we are researching not
only microorganisms that thrive in the in-
testines but also those that live in the
stomach wall. We are discovering mate-
rials that are beneficial for human health,
and are working to unlock the genomes
for intestinal bacteria, of which there are
several hundred. Furthermore, there is no
end to the pursuit of future-oriented life
sciences like synbiotics therapy, which
applies the possibilities of probiotics in a
clinical setting.
Product manufacturing
underpinning Yakult across
the globe
Yakult products are manufactured through-
out the world in plants that comply with
multiple international standards and
follow demanding hygiene management
practices that work to assure quality. In
addition, strict internal audits help to
ensure that high-quality, safe products are
turned out by environmentally friendly
production systems.
A company with the slogan, In order for
people to be healthy, everything around
them must also be healthy, can accept
nothing less.
Propagating the idea of
contributing to good health
We at Yakult constantly ask ourselves what
we can do to counter the things that
threaten the health of people throughout
the world.
We respond to that question through
not only R&D and the introduction of new
products but also by having Yakult Ladies
distribute health information to customers
and taking other small steps, as well.
At a higher level, we are expanding our
pharmaceutical business and, as a com-
pany globally recognized for its con-
tributions in the field of oncology, are
forging ahead with initiatives aimed at
developing drugs and promoting the
adoption of standard treatments. Yakults
globalization will have expanded our sales
coverage to include countries and regions
accounting for approximately 70% of the
worlds population in 2010. Given that,
our desire to contribute to the health of
people throughout the world, which we
have held on to since our very founding, is
steadily approaching realization in con-
junction with the growing adoption of
probiotics.
Pursuit of life sciences to further
the health of people throughout the world.
Product
Foods and Beverages
Dairy ProductsI
BeveragesI
Cosmetics
Pharmaceuticals
Production
Research & Development
Business Vision
Evolving with a firm sense of our origins
Looking to the future, we at Yakult remember our origins as we continue to break new ground.
Development of new materials for protecting health and the pursuit of R&D focused on
the possibilities of probiotics.
Advanced quality assurance and the manufacturing of products that protect the environment,
and propagation activities that promote understanding of Yakult products.
Born of the concept of preventive
medicine and the idea that
a healthy intestinal tract leads to
a long life
Yakults founder, Dr. Minoru Shirota,
advocated preventive medicine and the
idea that a healthy intestinal tract leads
to a long life. Yakult and our other
lactobacillus-based dairy products and
fermented milk drinks all originated from
these concepts. Over the years, numerous
dairy products have resulted from our pro-
biotics research and come to be included
in the regular diets of people around the
world.
The power of Yakult dairy products
L. casei strain Shirota and B. breve strain
Yakult are unaffected by gastric and other
digestive juices, and reach the intestines
alive. These microorganisms improve con-
ditions in the intestines and play an
important role in maintaining a healthy
intestinal tract.
Yakult dairy products include large
numbers of these lactobacilli, which are
exceptional for their ability to promote
good health. Indeed, with one bottle of
Yakult 400, which includes the greatest
number of lactobacilli, one can take in
a phenomenal 40 billion L. casei strain
Shirota. Presently, approximately 20
Yakult lactobacilli beverages and food
products have been recognized by Japans
Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare as
having beneficial health effects and been
approved to bear the Food for Specified
Health Uses label.
The future of probiotics
Creating new value in dairy
products
In its many years of probiotics research,
Yakult has discovered a host of previously
unknown functions of lactobacilli. Our
Pretio fermented milk drink, for example,
is produced from L. casei strain Shirota
and helps to maintain and promote good
health through the use of GABA (-
aminoisobutyric acid), which acts to lower
blood pressure and improve conditions
within the intestines. Meanwhile, our
BF-1 fermented milk drink includes
Bifidobacterium BF-1, a newly discovered
bacterium for which there are growing
expectations for its ability to protect the
stomach. And for women particularly
interested in health and beauty, Yakult
SHEs has gained attention as a product
that includes L. casei strain Shirota,
vitamin C, and collagen.
As a leader in the field of probiotics,
Yakult will continue to pursue the preven-
tive medicine possibilities of lactobacilli, in
support of its objective to contribute to
human health.
Yakult dairy products broadening the possibilities of probiotics
Benefits of Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota and
Bifidobacterium breve strain Yakult
Dairy Products
As a probiotics pioneer, Yakult will continue to broaden appreciation for the value of good health,
from the perspective of preventive medicine.
1) Promotion of Healthier Intestinal Activity to Improve
Bowel Movements
Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota produces lactic acid, while
Bifidobacterium breve strain Yakult produces lactic acid and acetic
acid. Both types of acid stimulate the intestines and improve bowel
movements.
2) Prevention of the Intraintestinal Growth of Harmful Bacteria
The lactic and acetic acids that Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota and
Bifidobacterium breve strain Yakult produce prevent the growth of
harmful bacteria inside the intestines.
3) Prevention of Intestinal Putrefaction by Inhibiting
Production of Harmful Substances
By preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, Lactobacillus casei
strain Shirota and Bifidobacterium breve strain Yakult also prevent
the production of substances that they create, and that lead to
intraintestinal putrefaction.
Food with Health Claims
(Food for Specified Health Uses)
Bifidobacterium breve
strain Yakult
(B. breve strain Yakult)
Bifidobacteria
Lactobacillus casei
strain Shirota
(L. casei strain Shirota)
Lactobacilli
Products containing L. casei strain Shirota
(Lactobacillus-based dairy products)
Yakult 400
Contains 40 billion
L. casei strain Shirota
per bottle.
Potent protection for
intestinal health.
Yakult 400LT
Yakult 400 with
reduced sweetness
and fewer calories.
Contains 40 billion
L. casei strain Shirota
per bottle.
Yakult
A Probiotics
pioneer. For
people of all ages,
including children
and the elderly.
Pretio
Contains at least
10 mg of GABA per
pack. A fermented
milk drink recom-
mended for people
with high blood
pressure.
Yakult 300V
Contains 30 billion
L. casei strain Shirota
per bottle.
Also includes
vitamins C and E.
Yakult SHEs
Offers iron and
calcium, in addition
to collagen.
Recommended for
women in particular.
Joie
Yogurt drink
containing live L. casei
strain Shirota and
calcium. Plain and
fruit-flavored varieties.
Products containing L. casei strain Shirota
(fermented milk drinks)
Sofuhl LCS100
Plain yogurt made
entirely with milk-
derived ingredients and
featuring a mild flavor.
Contains 10 billion
L. casei strain Shirota.
Sofuhl
Dessert yogurt
containing L. casei
strain Shirota.
Purela
Soft yogurt containing
L. casei strain Shirota
and Aloe Vera pulp.
B. breve strain Yakult Products
Bifiene S
Contains
bifidobacteria,
dietary fiber, iron,
and folic acid.
(Lactobacillus-based dairy products)
Bifia
Contains over 10 billion
bifidobacteria and
galactooligosaccharide.
BF-1
Lactobacillus drink
that contains
Bifidobacterium BF-1
and is easy on the
stomach.
<sold in limited
locations>
Bifiene M
Contains
bifidobacteria,
calcium and vitamin
D, which enhances
absorption.
(fermented milk drinks)
Food with Health Claims
There are two types of food with health
claims, Food for Specified Health Uses and
Food with Nutrient Function Claims.
A Food for Specified Health Uses is
intended to provide certain health benefits
and includes substances (active ingredients)
that have beneficial effects on the bodys physiology. A food
can display the Food for Specified Health Uses label only
after its effectiveness, safety, and quality have been scien-
tifically tested by the Japanese government and authoriza-
tion is received. A Food with Nutrient Function Claims is
intended for use as a nutritional supplement. As long as it
includes specified substances (vitamins, minerals, etc.) and
meets designated standards, a food may be labeled as a
Food with Nutrient Function Claims, without applying for
permission from, or notifying, the government.
Food with
Nutrient Function
Claims
(Defined by
manufacturers
according to rules
and regulations)
Pharmaceuticals
(Including quasi-
pharmaceuticals)
Food for
Specified Health
Uses
(Approval required
for individual
products)
Ordinary Foods
(Includes products
marketed as
health foods)
Amount of
nutrient content
Amounts of
ingredients
Health benefits
Precautions
Amount of nutrient
content
Benefits of nutrient
content
Precautions
Labeling
(Information on
nutrient content)
Protecting the health of people in
modern societies
Addressing a broad range of issues
Health concerns have diversified to include
a whole host of lifestyle diseases, allergies,
and stress. Since introducing the Toughman
nutritional drink in 1980, Yakult has devel-
oped and brought to market beverages
with outstanding functionality in protect-
ing human health, paying careful atten-
tion to the needs of men, women, and the
times.
Line of beverages with exceptional
health benefits
Yakults functional beverages include not
only nutritional drinks but also sports
drinks, beverages for refreshment, and
products that can be expected to provide
various health benefits.
Yakult offers vinegar drinks loaded with
amino acids required by the body, bever-
ages that make taking in polyphenols as
easy as enjoying a fruit-juice drink,
beverages that inhibit rapid increases in
blood sugar and increases in serum
triglyceride after meals, and a beverage
that is very effective in lowering choles-
terol. Our product line addresses a broad
range of modern health needs.
Yakult currently offers four products
Bansoreicha, Hiline, Globin ONE, and
Chosei Tonyu Kokusandaizu Shiyo
authorized to carry the Food with
Specified Health Uses label. Products
meeting requirements for bearing the
Food with Nutrient Function Claims
label include the Toughman series and
others.
Protecting the Health of People in
Modern Societies
To continue protecting the health of
people susceptible to lifestyle and other
modern diseases, Yakult is working to
broaden appreciation for the value of
health from the perspective of preventive
medicine, aggressively pursuing R&D on
beverages with health maintenance
benefits, and constantly employing new
perspectives in delivering products that
help to ensure healthy lives to customers.
Cosmetics inspired by the
dermatological benefits of
lactobacilli
Yakult cosmetics are based on the idea
that while lactobacillus-based beverages
protect the inside of the body and the
health of the digestive tract, lactobacillus-
based cosmetics protect the outside of the
body and the health of the skin. This can
be summed up with the phase, Intestinal
health is a direct factor in producing
beautiful, healthy skin.
Lactobacilli that are good for the body
are also good for the skin. Using the
results of years of concerted research
based on that concept, Yakult developed
a fermented lactobacilli extract for skincare
(moisturizing agent) in 1955. We next
developed a high molecular weight
hyaluronic acid (moisturizing agent) derived
from lactic acid bacteria and other cosmetic
ingredients and have continuously pursued
dermatological research.
Recommending cosmetics for
individual customers
Yakult cosmetics are delivered to cus-
tomers throughout Japan by Yakult
Beauty Advisers and Yakult Ladies. This
approach is taken so that we can
recommend the cosmetics that are best
for individual customers. Yakult Beauty
Advisers number approximately 7,700 in
total and are based in 571 salons.
Anti-aging benefits of the Parabio
Series
Focusing on the functions and structure of
the skin, Yakult developed lamellar parti-
cles, which function as a moisturizing
agent and are incorporated in our Parabio
Series products. After their introduction in
1995, these products quickly became a
favorite of customers interested in genuine
anti-aging benefits. In March 2007, we
introduced the Advanced Parabio Series
containing advanced lamellar particles
with enhanced moisturizing functions and
penetrating properties for even greater
anti-aging benefits. We supplemented this
product series with our first makeup base
in March 2008 and have received positive
customer feedback for this product.
Experiencing Intestinal health is a
direct factor in producing beautiful,
healthy skin
Yakult Beauty Advisers provide customers
with guidance to help them understand
proper application amounts and techniques,
as well as the benefits of daily use, all of
which are regarded as key points by Yakult
Beautiens. We want customers to learn
firsthand the meaning of the words,
Intestinal health is a direct factor in
producing beautiful, healthy skin by follow-
ing a recommended skincare regimen, and
to have Yakult Beauty Advisers share in
their happiness.
Yakult Beautiens is the name of Yakults
cosmetic operations. Beautiens was coined
fromthe words beauty andessence (ens)
and expresses the fundamental objective
of pursuing the essential beauty of the skin.
Hiline
Functional drink
containing
galacto-
oligosaccharide.
Globin ONE
Drink containing globin
proteolytic agent,
which checks the rise in
serum triglyceride
following a meal.
Kurozu Drink
Genuine kurozu
beverage that is
easy to drink and
refreshes.
Murasakino
Oishi Osu
Vinegar drink made
from purple yam
vinegar and grape
juice, and containing
polyphenols.
Ayamurasaki
Health beverage
containing
anthocyanin.
Recommended for
those who enjoy
alcoholic beverages.
Chosei Tonyu
Kokusandaizu Shiyo
Contains soy protein,
which helps to lower
cholesterol. Made with
Japanese soybeans.
Toughman
Health drink
containing three
types of ginseng
extract.
Toughman V
Health drink
containing
Korean ginseng,
royal jelly, and
vitamin
B-complex.
Toughman
G1000
Contains
1000 mg of
Korean ginseng.
THORPEDO
Low-Glycemic-
Index (GI) sports
drink.
Kininaru Yasai 100
15 no Yasai
100% fruit and vegetable
juice made from 15 types
of vegetables and three
kinds of fruit juice.
Lemorea
Relaxation beverage
containing Theanine
and 7 types of herb
extracts.
Bansoreicha
400 ml plastic
bottles.
Bansoreicha
Aseptic bricks
200 ml paper
containers.
Advanced Parabio Series Skincare
Advanced Parabio Series Base Makeup
Outstanding functional beverages for better health
In addition to dairy products that are beneficial for intestinal health, Yakult is developing beverages with
functions that address lifestyle diseases, stress, and other afflictions of people living in modern societies.
For more beautiful skinCosmetics born of research on lactobacilli
Yakult cosmetics are developed under the slogan, Putting the Power of Lactobacilli to Work for the Skin.
Bansoreicha
Sugar-free tea made
with guava leaves.
Recommended for
people concerned about
their blood sugar level.
2-liter plastic bottles.
Functional Beverages
From beginnings in the
development of pharmaceuticals
utilizing lactobacilli
Yakults pharmaceutical business came
into being in 1961 when we began
developing enzyme products for use in
food and pharmaceuticals. Yakult, which
had until then focused on contributing to
health from the perspective of preventive
medicine, undertook to supplement its
preventive medicine research with thera-
peutic initiatives aimed at protecting the
health of people suffering the misfortune
of illness. We embarked on prescription
drug sales in 1975 and have now ex-
panded our business to include over-the-
counter drugs, medical devices, reagents,
and other products, as well.
We launched our over-the-counter drug
operations with the introduction of Yakult
Seichoyaku, a lactobacillus-based drug, in
1979, came out with Yakult BL Seichoyaku,
which employs both L. casei strain Shirota
and B. breve strain Yakult, in 1995, and
introduced Yakult BL Seichoyaku S Tablets,
in 2006.
Yakult has also developed Campto I.V.
Infusion as its main anticancer drug, and is
presently moving forward with medical
and pharmaceutical initiatives based
primarily on a two-drug combination of
Campto I.V. Infusion and Elplat. Through
its track record and ongoing activities,
Yakult has come to be recognized the
world over as an important contributor in
the field of oncology.
Contributing to medicine through
the development of anticancer
drugs
Campto I.V. Infusion (Irinotecan hydro-
chloride trihydrate), developed by Yakult,
is synthesized from anticancer substances
found in the Camptotheca tree of China
and other sources, and has gained signifi-
cant attention as an anticancer drug with
unique efficacy. In Japan, Campto I.V.
Infusion is being used to treat colorectal,
lung, gynecological, stomach, and other
cancers. Furthermore, based on the results
of large-scale overseas clinical studies, it
has become a first line treatment for
colorectal cancer and is now approved for
use in over 100 countries.
Elplat (Oxaliplatin) is an anticancer drug
synthesized in Japan in 1976 and devel-
oped in Europe. Based on the results of
clinical studies performed mainly in Europe
and the US, Elplat has become the gold
standard for the treatment of colorectal
cancer and, since 1999, has been approved
for use in over 60 countries.
Yakult performed development work in
Japan, gained import approval in March
2005, and began domestic sales in April
2005.
Presently, colorectal cancer is the
deadliest cancer among Japanese women
and the fourth deadliest cancer among
Japanese men. With predictions that it will
overtake stomach cancer to become the
most prevalent cancer among Japanese by
2015, the challenge to discover additional
treatments and cures for this disease will
continue. Campto I.V. Infusion and Elplat
will likely be at the center of such research
activities.
In addition to Campto I.V. Infusion and
Elplat, Yakult, as part of its wide-reaching
efforts in the field of oncology, is pursuing
sales of the anticancer drugs cisplatin
Malco, Flutamide Tablets 125KN, and
Levofolinate for I.V. infusion Yakult, and
drugs aimed at relieving nausea, vomiting,
and other symptoms experienced by
cancer patients.
Information provision activities of
MRs specializing in oncology
Evidence Based Medicine (EBM) has
gained importance in recent years and it is
now considered imperative to promote
the adoption of the resulting treatments,
referred to as standard treatments, in
order to raise the level of medical care.
Yakult MRs (medical representatives)
have highly specialized knowledge of
oncology and provide timely, accurate
information for various needs in medical
environments. One goal of these informa-
tion activities is to promote the adoption
of standard treatments. Yakult MRs not
only promote Yakult products; they also
work to increase awareness of the
importance of standard treatments and
must provide a broad range of informa-
tion on the roles Yakult products play in
medical treatment as a whole.
There are currently approximately 160
Yakult MRs throughout Japan. This number,
however, is being increased and steps like
enhancing training to improve the quality
of MRs are being taken in order to
broaden awareness of the importance of
standard treatments.
Aiming to become Japans leading
company in the field of oncology
Yakults pharmaceutical business, which
began with lactobacillus R&D and has
capitalized on the success of Campto I.V.
Infusion and Elplat to establish a firm
position in the field of oncology, will
continue to focus on development work in
oncology and related areas. At the present
time, most of the anticancer drugs used,
or expected to be used, in Japan are the
products of overseas companies. Yakult,
however, is concentrating on developing
its own drugs and striving to develop
products with overseas potential.
Toward that end, we are performing
research aimed at identifying the seeds of
future pharmaceuticals that could achieve
success similar to that of Yakults Campto
I.V. Infusion.
Yakults pharmaceutical business is
pursuing three themesDrug develop-
ment primarily in the field of oncology,
information dissemination aimed at pro-
moting the adoption of standard treat-
ments, and organizational enhancements
for promoting these activities. The goal of
endeavors in these three areas is to make
Yakult Japans leading company in the
field of oncology.
Global Adoption of Campto I.V. Infusion
Countries where manufacturing
authorization has been given
Global Adoption of Campto I.V. Infusion
Countries and regions where manufacturing authorization has been given (Sold)
Note: As of July 2008, the product name Campto
Injection and the ingredient name Irinotecan
were changed to Campto I.V. Infusion and
Irinotecan hydrochloride trihydrate, respectively.
Japan
Argentina
Australia
Brazil
Canada
Chile
Columbia
Costa Rica
Ecuador
Guatemala
Honduras
Mexico
Panama
Peru
USA
Venezuela
New Zealand
Aruba
Dominican Republic
Jamaica
Puerto Rico
Trinidad and Tobago
El Salvador
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Czech Republic
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong
Israel
Italy
Lebanon
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Moving cancer treatment forward as an important
contributor in the field of oncology
Yakults pharmaceutical business, which grew out of applied research on lactobacilli,
is expanding into therapeutic medicine.
And 60 other
countries
Fulfilling their responsibilities of
manufacturing life-saving
pharmaceuticals
Yakults pharmaceutical plant is located
next to its Fuji Susono dairy product plant,
which sits in full view of Mt. Fuji. It is
there, within an environment characterized
by pure water and an abundance of
natural greenery, that we produce safe,
high-quality pharmaceuticals with advanced
manufacturing technologies that comply
with the Good Manufacturing Practices
(GMP = Manufacturing and quality man-
agement standards for pharmaceuticals
and other products) of Japan, America
and Europe. Meeting GMP standards is an
imperative for the manufacturing of life-
saving pharmaceuticals, and we supple-
ment these with our own internal quality
management system, which we employ to
constantly and strictly monitor quality.
Making products of the highest
quality in an environmentally
friendly way
To consistently make products of impec-
cable safety day in and day out, Yakults
dairy product plants employ integrated
production systems that start with the
addition of ingredients and include every
phase from culturing, to blending, con-
tainer manufacturing, filling, and shipping.
HACCP food hygiene management sys-
tems in production processes are used to
ensure exacting quality management and
meticulous hygiene management at the 8
plants of Yakult Honsha and 6 plants of its
subsidiaries. In addition, we have created
our own quality management standards,
which are stricter than those employed by
outside auditors, and conduct internal
audits to ensure they are followed. Inspec-
tions by public institutions and other
measures guarantee that Yakult quality
management measures meet both internal
and external standards.
All Yakult Honsha and subsidiary plants
(16 in total, 14 of which manufacture dairy
products) have acquired the ISO14001
international environmental management
system certification and constantly work
to remain in compliance.
Furthermore, Yakults flagship Fuji Susono
Plant has acquired the ISO9001 interna-
tional quality management and assurance
certification. And we have taken the fur-
ther step of developing our own rigorous
quality management system based on a
combination of HACCP and ISO9001
standards. In so doing, we have created a
new model for ultimate quality assurance,
as we continue to manufacture high-
quality, safe products that are also
environmentally friendly.
To deliver products of even higher
quality
In recent years, consumers have developed
an even stronger interest in food safety,
and Yakult is moving ahead with efforts to
introduce production equipment and
product inspection facilities incorporating
the latest technology, so that it can reli-
ably deliver high-quality products. The
integration of product inspection facilities
directly into our production lines makes it
possible to instantly check every product
we make.
Welcoming visitors to plants that
epitomize safety and peace of mind
Every one of our plants welcomes visitors
and has taken steps to give as many
people as possible a chance to experience
our manufacturing facilities firsthand.
Going forward, we are redoubling efforts
aimed at giving customers a real sense of
the high degree of safety incorporated in
our products, as we strive to ensure that
everything we do in our plants enhances
faith in them.
The Yakult Group is engaged in ongoing activities aimed at
producing high quality and protecting the environment.
Domestic and Overseas Certifications
IISO9001: International product quality management system certification.
IISO14001: International certification for systems aimed at continuous
improvement in environmental performance.
IHACCP: Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point international standard for
food and pharmaceutical safety management.
*Information on the acquisition of these certifications by Yakult Honsha and the Yakult Group is
presented on P33.
Pharmaceutical Plant
Food Production Plants
Cosmetics Plant
Yakults cosmetics plant
Manufacturing safe products in line
with exacting standards
Yakults Shonan Cosmetics Plant was
refitted in March 2008.
In updating that plant, we took steps
not only for the purpose of making cos-
metics under strict safety standards, and
ensuring quality and hygiene manage-
ment, but also to add a Beautiens Salon
and a gallery (for plant tours) to help
visitors better understand our product
safety practices. At the Beautiens Salon,
visitors can relax on a sofa, receive skin
analysis and counseling services, and try
Yakults high-quality products. Filling and
packaging processes can be observed
from the gallery and visitors can use a
microphone to talk directly with employees
working on the production line. We have
taken these and other innovative steps to
satisfy customer desires for information on
our cosmetic production process.
At present, our production unit is moving ahead
with efforts to restructure our plants and update
them with the most advanced, state-of-the-art
facilities and environmental measures.
The photograph above is of the Yakult Iwate
Plant completed in March 2007.
Pretio production line
Beautiens salon Gallery walkway
Production line
Environmentally friendly, safe products of the highest quality
Yakult makes safe products under exacting quality management measures with the latest,
most advanced, and optimal production systems.
Yakults R&D initiatives
As heir to the passion and spirit of inquiry
of Dr. Minoru Shirota, our first research
director, Yakults research lab develops
food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic ingre-
dients that are useful for maintaining and
promoting human health, and performs
research on their applications.
In the area of food products, our
research lab has devoted significant effort
to R&D aimed at putting the extraordinary
powers of microorganisms to work for the
benefit of human health. It is also pur-
suing R&D on anticancer and related drugs
in the field of pharmaceuticals, and der-
matology-based R&D focused on safe, highly
effective materials in the area of cosmetics.
Establishment of a European
research lab
In May 2005, Yakult Honsha established
its first overseas research facility in Ghent,
Belgium. The Yakult Honsha European
Research Center for Microbiology ESV
(YHER) applies Yakults technologies for
analyzing intestinal flora, which are among
the best in the world, to shed light on the
intestinal flora of Europeans and research
the effects of probiotics on intestinal func-
tions, as one step toward improving health
for all people.
Yakult Central Institute for
Microbiological Research
The research activities of the Yakult Central
Institute for Microbiological Research fall
into three levelsBasic research; screen-
ing of food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic
ingredients; and product testing.
Basic research is indispensable for all
R&D activities. As its primary mission, the
Yakult Central Institute for Microbiological
Research works to elucidate the relation-
ship between human health and intestinal
flora, and, as a key Yakult basic research
center, examines the structures and
functions of intestinal flora. The research
initiatives and accomplishments of the
Yakult Central Institute for Microbiological
Research have drawn significant attention
from academia and industry throughout
the world.
Newly discovered effects of
lactobacilli
Through years of research, it has been
discovered that drinking beverages with
L. casei strain Shirota works to restore NK
activity* that has been diminished by
factors like smoking, physical inactivity,
and a lack of sleep. In addition, it has also
been learned that L. casei strain Shirota,
by helping the body rid itself of mutagenic
substances (substances that encourage the
development of cancer) and enhancing the
immune system, reduces the risk of cancer.
The prevention of cancer and its recurrence
is closely related to the immune system,
and Yakult is moving ahead with efforts
to learn more about this relationship.
Post-genome discoveries regarding
lactobacillus functionality
In recent years, significant advances have
been achieved with regard to analytical
technologies that use molecular biology
techniques to analyze microorganisms,
and genome sequence information is now
being used to study the characteristics and
functions of microorganisms. This type of
work is referred to as post-genome
research and has been useful in analyzing
gene expressions relevant to the particular
characteristics of L. casei strain Shirota.
Detailed studies of the mechanism for
L. casei strain Shirotas immunoregulatory
impact on the host and the interaction
(crosstalk) with the intestinal tract are also
being pursued.
YIF-SCAN drawing attention from
throughout the world
Approximately 100 trillion bacteria of
several hundred types live in the intes-
tines, and there is still much to learn about
them.
In the past, intestinal flora were studied
predominately through an approach known
as the culture method*. The culture
method requires time and advanced skills
and is limited by factors like the existence
of many types of bacteria that cannot be
cultured.
The Yakult Central Institute for
Microbiological Research, therefore, set
about looking for a new research ap-
proach and succeeded in developing YIF-
SCAN, Yakults state-of-the-art intestinal
flora analysis system. YIF-SCAN selectively
quantifies bacteria based on the unique
gene sequences (RNA and DNA) of indivi-
dual intestinal flora. It opens the door to
analyses that can be performed more
rapidly than possible with the culture
method and does not require a high level
of skill. Applicable to bacteria existing in
high numbers or low numbers, YIF-SCAN
is also capable of a wide range of high-
sensitivity analyses, and the possibilities
for illuminating the close relationship
between intestinal flora and human health
have drawn attention from around the
world. Yakult has made YIF-SCAN available
to Groupe Danone and is promoting joint
research with an eye toward establishing
YIF-SCAN as the global standard for
intestinal flora analysis.
Tireless pursuit of life sciences
Flow of Research Initiatives conducted at the Yakult Central Institute for
Microbiological Research
Research & Development
Product Feasibility Testing
Safety tests
New food materials New pharmaceutical materials New cosmetic materials
Industrial feasibility tests
Basic Studies
Screening of the Basic Materials of Foods, Medicines and Cosmetics
Verification of functions of
food materials
Verification of
pharmacological effects
Verification of functions of
cosmetic ingredients
*NK activity: The immune system protects our
bodies from harmful bacteria, viruses, and cancer
and other maladies. Spearheading the immune
system are natural killer (NK) cells. NK activity
refers to the ability of NK cells to perform their
roles and has recently come to be recognized as
an indicator of immune system strength.
*Culture method: In the culture method, a dilute
test sample is applied onto a culture medium and
colonies created by the bacteria in the sample
are counted.
Intestinal Flora Analysis SystemYIF-SCAN
Capable of rapidly analyzing intestinal microflora in a simple, highly precise method without the need for cultivation.
An NK cell destroying a cancer cell
Cancer cell
NK cell
Yakult Honsha European Research Center for Microbiology, ESV (YHER)
Exterior view, of bio-incubator facility located in the Technologiepark
*The YHER is located on the first floor of this building
UNITED
KINGDOM
FRANCE
GERMANY
DENMARK
NETHERLANDS
SWITZERLAND
BELGIUM
Culturing work on a clean bench
Macrophages that have taken in L. casei strain
Shirota (green color)
Gene expression analysis using DNA microarrays
Intestinal flora Biophylaxis Probiotics Cancer prevention Intestinal immunity
Genomic analysis of microorganisms Search for new intestinal bacteria
Identification and improvement of useful varieties of microorganisms High-level purification and
processing of enzymes Development of techniques for utilization of food materials Identification and
application of techniques for utilization of food materials Detection and improvement of useful
components of milk Chemical synthesis and modification of organic compounds
Over more than 70 years, Yakluts research on how to apply the extraordinary powers of
microorganisms for the benefit of human health has extended into foods, pharmaceuticals,
cosmetics, and various other fields.
*Intestinal flora: Several hundred types of
bacteria, numbering approximately 100 trillion
in all, live in the human intestines. These
intestinal bacteria gather in groups resembling
fields of flowers and, therefore, are referred to
as intestinal flora.
Synbioticsa focus of attention in
medical settings
Over the past few years, synbiotics, a
research focus of Yakult, has gained
attention in medical settings. Synbiotics
combine probiotics and prebiotics (sub-
stances that promote the growth of
beneficial bacteria in the stomach). Many
are hoping to employ synbiotics as a
substitute for antibiotics that have been
used to control postoperative and other
infections. Synbiotic treatments have
already been shown in clinical settings to
enhance recuperative powers by promot-
ing the recovery of immune functions and
preventing septic complication by bene-
fiting intestinal flora, and by promoting
the absorption of digested food to im-
prove nutritional status.
Propagating Yakults desire
To deliver good health to as many people as possible
Distribution
Overseas Business
Home Delivery
Direct Sales
Putting the power of microorganisms to work for the environment
Determination kit for nitrifying bacteria
Left: Immunolatex Kenshutsukun
Right: Immunolatex Supirakun
Listed in the Wastewater Examination Methods (1997 ed) as a quantitative method
based on the nitrifying bacteria antibody method, and now used in wastewater
treatment plants throughout Japan.
Nitrosomonasa type
of nitrifying bacteria.
Helps to remove
nitrogen compounds
from wastewater.
Yakult Central Institute for Microbiological Research
The Yakult Central Institute for Micro-
biological Research performs chemical
analyses, which provide a foundation for
R&D, and develops technologies like
microorganism analytical methods with
environmental applications. It also helps to
ensure consistent quality, so that Yakult
can always provide safe products. Since
1976, the Yakult Central Institute for
Microbiological Research has been
registered with the national and local
governments in Japan as an analysis and
inspection institution and has performed
analysis and testing work in response to
government, business, and consumer
requests. Joint research from these under-
takings resulted in the development of a
reagent kit for use in measuring nitrifying
bacteria and rapidly assessing water quality.
In 2006, this kit received the Technology
Prize from the Japan Society on Water
Environment, Japans largest organization
in the field of water environment chemistry,
and it is now widely used by universities
throughout Japan and water treatment
equipment manufacturers.
Heavy-metal analysis using an atomic absorption
photometer.
Prebiotics Probiotics
Non-digestible food ingredients
IGalactooligosaccharide
IDietary fiber
etc.
Bifidobacteria
Synbiotics
Lactobacilli
Yakults Analysis Laboratories
Biotechnology
IAntibody work
IDevelopment of
measurement kits
Chemical Analysis
IIngredient/product
analysis
IFood analysis
ISpecial analysis
Studies, Planning,
Development
IInformation searches,
and analysis and
evaluation
IDevelopment of
analytical methods
IProduct development
Environmental
Protection
IPopularizing a water
treatment system using
Yakult containers
IUsing microorganisms to
clean up the environment
Certification Work
IEnvironmental
measurement
IWork environment
measurement
IDrinking water testing
Microorganism
Testing
IMicroorganism testing
IApplied microorganism
testing
IFermentation testing
Measurement certification business
Concentration: Registration number Tokyo, No. 520
Sound-pressure level: Registration number Tokyo, No. 871
Vibrational acceleration level: Registration number Tokyo, No. 961
Water quality inspection for drinking water in buildings:
Registration number Tokyo 57, Sui No. 40
Measurement of air quality in buildings:
Registration number Tokyo 63, Ku No. 2136
Measurement of work environment:
Registration number Tokyo Ro No. 13-42
Class II olfactory testing and certification: No. 222 (03)
Every day, 25 million people
throughout the world drink Yakult
Because of Dr. Minoru Shirotas desire to
protect the health of people throughout
the world, it was only natural that Yakult
expand overseas. In 1964, Yakult Co,. Ltd.
(Taiwan) began operations, as the first
step in the expansion of our network to
Asia, Oceania, the Americas, and Europe.
Based on the belief that all people desire
good health, we pushed ahead with
efforts aimed at deepening understanding
of lactobacilli, and due to these efforts
Yakult products are today sold through 27
overseas operations and consumed in 31
countries and regions by over 25 million
people every day.
Locally based activities
Yakult, in order to win the acceptance of
local communities, makes it a point to
manufacture and sell its products on a
local basis. Deepening understanding of
the ideas of preventive medicine and a
healthy intestinal tract leads to a long life,
and encouraging regular consumption of
Yakult products, requires the creation of an
appropriate environment and the develop-
ment of people to get the job done.
Our aim is to create business operations
that are integrated into, and fully accepted
by, local communities by providing health
information appropriate for the daily life-
style and dietary practices, respecting local
traditions and cultures, and taking other
actions tailored to individual countries or
regions.
As in Japan, deliveries of Yakult
products in many countries and regions
are made by Yakult Ladies, who presently
number approximately 36,000 outside of
Japan.
From single points to whole new
markets
From countries in which we have produc-
tion facilities to neighboring countries, we
are further expanding delivery areas for
not only the Yakult fermented milk drink
but also our other products and, thereby,
propagating the use of our dairy products
among an even greater number of people,
and expanding our base of loyal customers.
Steadily working toward the goal of
45 countries and regions in 2010
In countries and regions where Yakult
products are already available, we continue
to pursue activities aimed at promoting
understanding of preventive medicine and
the idea that a healthy intestinal tract
leads to good health and long life. We are
also increasing the number of our loyal
customers as we move into new countries
and regions. Our goal is to make our prod-
ucts available in 45 countries and regions
by 2010.
As a bonus, the trust we have won
through our overseas activities is bene-
fiting our activities in Japan. From Japan to
overseas, and from overseas to Japan, we
are universally applying what we have
experienced and learned as we work to
earn even greater goodwill from our
customers.
Yakult Co., Ltd. (Taiwan)
Hong Kong Yakult Co., Ltd.
Yakult (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Korea Yakult Co., Ltd.
Yakult Philippines, Inc.
Yakult (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
P.T. Yakult Indonesia Persada
Yakult Australia Pty. Ltd.
(New Zealand Branch)
Yakult (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
Yakult Vietnam Co., Ltd.
Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd.
Yakult (China) Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou Yakult Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Yakult Co., Ltd.
Beijing Yakult Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Yakult Marketing Co., Ltd.
Yakult S/A Ind. E. Com. (Brazil)
Yakult S.A. De C.V. (Mexico)
Yakult Argentina S.A.
Yakult U.S.A. Inc.
Yakult Europe B.V.
Yakult Nederland B.V.
Yakult Belgium S.A./N.V.
Yakult UK Ltd.
(Ireland Branch)
Yakult Deutschland GmbH
Yakult Oesterreich GmbH
Yakult Italia S.r.l.
Yakult Honsha European Center for
Microbiology ESV (YHER)
Taiwan
Indonesia India
Brazil
Thailand Australia
Hong Kong Mexico
Korea New Zealand
Guangzhou
USA
Philippines Malaysia
Shanghai
Argentina
Netherlands
Singapore Vietnam
Beijing
Belgium Ireland Austria
UK Germany Italy
24
24
21 23
22
25
11
26
27
8
8
7
6
9
3
10 5
2
13 1
16 14
12
15
4
20
18
17
19
20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
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19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
Yakult throughout the world
Until the day when we can deliver Yakult to all the people of the world,
our propagation activities will not cease.
Countries where products are also sold
(excluding test sales in Luxembourg,
France, Spain, Brunei, Uruguay, and
Canada)
Yakults Overseas
Network
Delivering Yakult products in the
best condition possible to protect
the health of customers
Delivery by Yakult Ladies has been a
constant since this system, which is unique
to Yakult, was introduced in 1963. Home
delivery by Yakult Ladies was born of
the desire to protect human health and
encourage people to have one bottle a
day.
Deliveries to every corner of
the country, with sincerity
Yakult Ladies, who deliver Yakult products
directly to customers, are the smiling
faces of Yakult. Most of the approximately
42,000 Yakult Ladies are housewives and
are based out of approximately 2,650
centers, or marketing companies, located
throughout Japan. With the spirit of,
Anytime, anywhere and even single
bottles, Yakult Ladies deliver our prod-
ucts to customers in every corner of the
country, with sincerity.
For Yakult Ladies customers are
like family, and they want to do
whatever they can to help them
remain healthy
Yakult Ladies treat their customers like
family members and, as such, want them
always to be happy. Yakult Ladies share
both the ups and downs of their customers,
and want to do whatever they can to help
customers live with peace of mind.
One thing they do along these lines is to
play the role of a health adviser in regu-
larly providing health information and
advice on Yakult products.
Promoting the benefits of
lactobaccilli
Since its founding, Yakult has been meet-
ing directly with customers, providing in-
formation on the extraordinary benefits of
lactobacilli and encouraging customers to
make Yakult products a part of their daily
routine. Revisiting our roots, Yakult Ladies
are now redoubling their efforts to com-
municate to customers information on the
powers of lactobacilli and promoting the
daily use of our products in an effort to
help as many people as possible live long,
healthy lives.
Environmentally friendly delivery
At Yakult, we want the delivery of our
products to be environmentally friendly.
To help make that a reality, we have
begun to use electric vehicles, which have
an extremely low environmental burden,
to make daily deliveries. As of March 31,
2008, we were operating 239 electric
vehicles in Japan.
Direct sales born of the desire to
propagate understanding and
use of Yakult products
Based on the desire to give customers
access to Yakult products anytime and any-
where, we began direct sales to give even
people we cannot reach through home
delivery a chance to enjoy our products.
On the street or in an office,
delivering good health anytime,
anywhere
Defining all sales modes, other than home
delivery, as direct sales, Yakult makes its
products available to customers through
supermarkets, convenience stores, and other
high-volume retailers; vending machines;
factories, offices, and other business settings;
recreational facilities; and other channels.
In addition, because they offer health
benefits, we go to particular lengths to
make Yakult dairy products available at
places like schools, hospitals, and facilities
serving the health needs of the elderly.
To improve understanding of
Yakult products at the retail level
We want customers to use our products
only after they have a clear understanding
of their health benefits. Toward that end,
we perform live demonstrations aimed at
providing information primarily on the
health benefits of lactobacilli in major
retail stores and other locations, strive to
provide as much information as possible at
product displays, and actively take other
steps to help customers develop a detailed
understanding of our products.
Use of vending machines to
make access to Yakult products as
convenient as possible
In addition to retail stores, Yakult sells its
products through vending machines in an
effort to give customers access to Yakult
products wherever and whenever they
want them. We operate approximately
70,000 vending machines throughout
Japan and go to great lengths to not only
ensure that products are fresh and
machines are operating properly, but also
present customers with product choices
that meet their needs. In addition, we
have taken measures to help improve the
global environment and contribute to
society by, for example, using non-CFC
refrigeration systems and equipping vend-
ing machines with Automatic External
Defibrillators (AEDs).
To help even more people enjoy
the benefits of Yakult products
Yakult has enhanced its product line
through a collaboration with Kirin Beverage
Co., Ltd. As part of our relationship with
Kirin Beverage, we are also moving
forward with the installation of vending
machines that offer selections of each
companys best-selling products. This
initiative is making it possible to provide
customers with product choices for both
better health and relaxation in a single
vending machine.
Sales Channels
Yakult Ladies making deliveries with sincerity and a smile
Anytime, anywhere and even single bottles. Reliably delivering products to the hands of customers.
Yakult Ladies play a key role in the propagation of Yakult products.
Anytime, anywhereTo have as many people
as possible use our products
Yakult is creating retail points aimed at providing customers with accurate product information,
and working to enhance customer service.
General
Retailers
Bakeries,
confectionaries
Food stores
Rice shops, etc.
High-Volume
Retailers
Supermarkets
Convenience
stores, etc.
Schools
On-campus stores
School lunches,
etc.
Transportation
JR stores
Private railway stores,
etc.
Commercial
Facilities
Factory and office
cafeterias
Food services, etc.
Leisure
Facilities
Pachinko halls,
etc.
Hospitals
Hospitals
Clinics, etc.
CSR as a key management
concern
As a company that contributes to good
health, Yakult believes that it has a duty to
promote corporate social responsibility
(CSR) and, thereby, help to build a healthy
society in which people can lead healthy
lives. The Yakult Group sees companies as
members of society and pursues environ-
mental initiatives, social contribution
activities, and other things that companies
must do, and also those things that only
Yakult can do.
Under our corporate philosophy (We
contribute to the health and happiness of
people around the world through pursuit
of excellence in life science in general and
our research and experience in micro-
organisms in particular.) and our corporate
slogan (In order for people to be healthy,
everything around them must also be
healthy), we are implementing CSR activi-
ties as management cornerstones.
Actively advancing compliance
The Yakult Group considers compliance
(compliance with the law and establishing
a corporate philosophy) as one of the
most important responsibilities of a corpo-
ration, and actively advances compliance
initiatives.
Yakult Ethical Principles and
Code of Conduct
In 2000, we established the Yakult Ethical
Principles and Code of Conduct as guide-
lines for proper corporate activities. We
later improved the effectiveness of both
and widened the scope of their imple-
mentation to include not only Yakult
Honsha, but also subsidiaries and market-
ing companiesthe entire Yakult Group.
Compliance Committee
In 2000, we also established our Compliance
Committee, which is composed of inde-
pendent expert (attorneys and Certified
Public Accountants) from outside the
company. The Compliance Committee
regularly meets with Yakult Honsha
executives and provides us with a wide
range of opinions and recommendations
on the full range of our corporate activities,
from the perspective of compliance.
Compliance Promotion System
Yakult has established its Compliance
Promotion Team to actively and effectively
promote compliance, and appointed Com-
pliance Managers in individual depart-
ments and groups to ensure that daily
activities are being properly pursued.
Training Activities
Yakult regularly holds position-specific
training for employees newly appointed to
department heads and management posts,
and conducts training focused on topics
like the Company Law, the Antimonopoly
Law, and the Personal Information
Protection Law for executives, as well as
departments and other organization units.
Detailed, accurate IR information
disclosure
At Yakult, we vigorously pursue investor
relations (IR) activities, and actively work
to disclose financial and other information
to shareholders and other investors in a
manner that is fair and timely.
More specifically, we regularly gather
information for disclosure through meet-
ings of our IR Liaison Committee and from
related departments in order to allow
smooth internal collaboration.
We have also created an IR page within
our website to permit timely access to
important information and, in the current
fiscal year, completed the English-language
versions of our website and IR page,
making it possible to provide information
to an even wider range of investors. As an
additional step to promote understanding
of our business operations, we hold
results briefings and business briefings
for securities analysts and institutional
investors. We also accept their requests
for individual interviews and invite them
on tours of our facilities.
Training and personal development
Fostering the development of
training and awareness that
promote initiative
Companies are made up of people and
the dynamism of companies originates
from the activities of their employees.
In 2002, Yakult introduced its Corpo-
rate Coach Program as part of its human
resources development activities. Every
year, this program turns out about 30
internal coaches whose mission is to firmly
integrate coaching skills into marketing
companies and other organizations within
the Yakult Group to invigorate organiza-
tional climate and improve their productivity.
Coaching is a skill aimed at boosting
motivation and enhancing communication
by encouraging people to act on their
own initiative.
This and other human resources devel-
opment approaches taken by Yakult are
being used to foster a corporate culture
that is vibrant and imports strong job
satisfaction.
Coexisting with people, communities, and the environment
Aiming to be the best partner possible
Yakult Social & Environmental
Report
Annual Report Healthist magazine
Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR)
We fulfill our social responsibilities as a company that
contributes to good health
The Yakult Group aims to be a good corporate citizen of the earth.
We will continue contributing to the health of people around the world.
Yakult is an Official Partner of the Federation
Internationale de Natation (FINA).
Symposium on Intestinal Flora
Tokyo Yakult Swallows Baseball Clinic
Yakults Website
Bound Tennis
Yakult Hall
Environmental activities
Environmentally Conscious
Corporate Activities
Yakult created an organization for protecting
the environment in 1991, and formulated
Yakults Basic Policy on the Environment for
the entire Yakult Group in 1997. We have
also set forth our environmental philosophy,
which reads, Yakult understands that
protecting the earths environment is one
of the most important aspects of coexi-
stence with society and it is committed to
considering the need to protect the en-
vironment in all of its corporate activities.
Our environmental policy includes
requirements like the following:
IReduce usage of containers and packag-
ing, reduce waste, and design and use
containers and packaging that utilize
recycled resources.
ITake strict measures to prevent environ-
mental pollution in manufacturing, and
reduce waste and greenhouse gas
emissions by using resources and energy
more efficiently.
IReduce vehicular and other types of en-
vironmental burdens in product shipping
and marketing, recycle containers and
packaging, and reuse marketing-related
resources.
IIn all Yakult Group offices, reduce waste
and greenhouse gas emissions by using
resources and energy more efficiently,
and promote recycling and green
purchasing to help build a recycling-
oriented society.
Every year, we report on the details of
activities like these and the status of our
environmental management initiatives in
the Yakult Social & Environmental Report.
Advanced water treatment system
that uses Yakult containers
Yakult is working to promote a water
treatment system that uses 65 ml Yakult
containers with the bottoms removed as
tools for culturing microorganisms that
break down contaminants. In this system,
bottomless Yakult containers are randomly
added to wastewater treatment tanks
where various types of microorganisms
take up residence on both the insides and
outsides of the Yakult containers. These
microorganisms thoroughly break down
and digest the organic substances that
contribute to water pollution, achieving very
high levels of treatment with industrial
and residential wastewater. Compared to
traditional activated sludge treatment
methods, this system produces significantly
better treatment results, and, with both
the national and local governments
adopting it, Yakult is helping to improve
water quality.
Participation in Team Minus 6%
Yakult Honsha, as part of its efforts to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is
participating in the Team Minus 6%
movement to help prevent the emission of
greenhouse gases. Key initiatives we are
undertaking as part of this movement,
which is being promoted by the Ministry
of the Environment, are:
1) Promotion of the Cool Biz and Warm
Biz initiatives and active pursuit of
energy conservation within Yakults
business facilities to reduce electricity
consumption.
2) Separation of waste from Yakult Honshas
headquarters into nine classes of mate-
rials and recycling of 100% of these
materials.
3) Gradual replacement of all vehicles
(excluding 4WD vehicles) used in phar-
maceutical operations, with hybrid vehi-
cles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
4) Initiatives aimed at reducing shipping-
related energy consumption by at least
1% annually.
5) Introduction of renewable energy in the
form of solar power (Fuji Susono Plant)
and wind power (Fukushima Plant).
In the future, our participation in Team
Minus 6% will extend beyond Yakult
Honsha to include the entire Yakult Group.
Advancing science and technology
Contributing to research on
intestinal flora
Yakult Bioscience Research Foundation
was established in 1992 to actively
promote and support research on the
relationships between intestinal flora and
human health. Its activities consist mainly
of intestinal flora research, support for
international research exchanges, and
sponsorship of an annual symposium on
intestinal flora. Intestinal flora research is
pursued not only in the field of micro-
biology but also in areas like nutrition
science, immunology, and genetics.
Yakult Honsha has created and oper-
ates the Association for Research on Lactic
Acid Bacteria, an organization that supports
research on lactobacilli and intestinal
bacteria, and assists member universities
and research institutes from throughout
Japan with their research endeavors.
Providing health information
Yakult provides health information
based on lactobacillus research
Yakult provides health information through
various channels including its Healthist and
Probiotics information magazines, both of
which began publication in 1976, educa-
tional videos, and other publications.
We also provide information on the
benefits of lactobacilli and other health-
related topics through our website in an
effort to disseminate accurate knowledge.
Relations with local communities
Courtesy Visits born of the
sympathy of one person
Since 1972, Yakult Ladies have been
visiting single elderly people, as they make
their deliveries, to confirm that they are
safe and spend some time chatting them.
This activity began when a single Yakult
Lady in the Japanese city of Koriyama,
Fukushima Prefecture took it upon herself
to provide Yakult products to single
elderly people, at her own expense, after
hearing the sad news of one such person
whose death went unnoticed. Her
initiative resonated with both the local
Yakult marketing company and social
workers, and moved local governments
throughout Japan to take action. The
resulting courtesy visits, known as Ai no
Homon Katsudo, have been highly
praised by both people involved in
volunteer activities and government. We
were recognized for our efforts and
received the Japan Institute for Social
and Economic Affairs Special Community
Relations Award for Excellence as a
Corporation in 1991 and the Minister for
Health and Welfare Award in 1994.
Presently, approximately 3,900 Yakult
Ladies are paying regular visits to over 52,000
elderly citizens, in response to requests
from 163 local governments in Japan.
In addition, Yakult Ladies, who have a
chance to observe every corner of their
sales areas during daily deliveries, contribute
to community safety and security through
crime watch and other such activities under-
taken in coordination with local police.
Contributing to Sports and Culture
Communicating the fun of sports
and preciousness of good health
The Yakult Group, through its professional
baseball team, the Tokyo Yakult Swallows,
and other means, actively pursues social
and cultural activities that convey the
enjoyment found in sports and cultural
events, and the preciousness of good
health. In the area of sports, the Swallows
entertain fans during the season and,
since 1976, have been holding baseball
clinics for childrens (primary and junior
high school aged children) baseball teams
during the off-season. In fiscal 2007,
clinics were held in 24 locations, with
participation by approximately 3,400 kids.
On other fronts, we are working to
promote lifelong sports participation
through our support for bound tennis,
and, since 2005, have sponsored the FINA
World Swimming Championships and the
FINA World Short Course Championships
as an official FINA partner.
In the area of cultural activities, we
support the arts through our operation of
Yakult Hall. Moving ahead, we will
continue to actively promote sporting and
cultural activities as a company whose
interests lie in advancing the cause of
good health.
Basic Flow of the Water Treatment System Using Yakult Containers
1
2
3
5 6 7
8
9
10
11
Intake water
Wastewater pump tank
(sedimentation tank)
Flow volume adjustment tank
Yakult containers from which
the bottoms have been removed
Contact and aeration tanks
Precipitation tank
Discharge (disinfection) tank
Sludge return
Discharge water
4
1
2 3
10 10
8 9
11
4 4 4
5 6 7
Yakults regular visitation program for senior
citizens has received high praise as a corporate
volunteer activity.
1991 Received the 7th Special Community
Relations Award for Excellence as a
Corporation, sponsored by the Japan
Institute for Social and Economic Affairs
1992 Received the First Japan Life and Culture
Grand Prize sponsored by the Japan
Fashion Association
1994 Received the Minister for Health and
Welfare Award for distinguished
volunteer service
Carrying forward the enduring
spirit of Yakult
Profile & History
President Sumiya Hori
Companies exist to do useful things for people and society.
That is what I believe.
To be useful to people and society, Yakult has steadfastly protected
certain things.
Among these are the concept of preventive medicine,
the idea that a healthy intestinal tract leads to good health and long life,
and the conviction that everyone should have affordable access to good
health. All three form the foundation upon which we have built our
businesses and are collectively referred to by us as Shirota-ism.
They also represent the desire of Dr. Minoru Shirota, Yakults founder,
to deliver good health to as many people as possible.
We regard Shirota-ism as a universal truth that has, is, and will continue
contributing to human health.
We at Yakult promise that we will steadfastly carry forward the philosophy,
dreams, ideals, and passionate will that have sustained us since our
founding, even amid environmental crises, the chronic stresses of society,
safety and credibility problems regarding food, and other forms of societal
tumult.
In response to the enduring desire for good health, we will unflinchingly
protect these universal truths, and, as a leading company in the field of
probiotics, we will work to extend good health to even more people,
farther reaches of our planet, and an even greater cross-section of society.
20082009
(as of June 25, 2008)
Net Sales
Net Income
Dairy products
Juices and soft drinks
Cosmetics
Pharmaceuticals
Others
Total
INon-Consolidated/Sales by Product
Net Sales
Net Income
INon-Consolidated/Net Sales and Income
IConsolidated/Net Sales and Income
Business Performance
Branches Honsha Plants
Board of Directors & Auditors
Organization Chart
Research and Development Institute
Yakult Honsha: A Company Profile
Principal Business Activities
March
2005
78,011
46,069
6,732
17,796
7,916
156,525
March
2004
247,506
14,104
238,847
15,083*
1
*
2
*
1
79,307
43,779
6,752
18,181
9,446
157,466
156,525
8,643
March
2006
77,765
44,273
6,546
24,245
9,592
162,423
267,707
14,442
162,423
7,401
March
2007
75,839
44,490
6,644
25,698
8,982
161,656
273,099
14,805
161,656
8,250
157,466
8,997
March
2008
75,132
40,997
6,687
31,003
13,570
167,390
317,335
16,675
167,390
8,166
ICorporate name: YAKULT HONSHA CO., LTD.
IDate founded: 1935
IDate incorporated: April 9, 1955
IHead office: 1-19 Higashi Shimbashi 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Telephone: 03-3574-8960
IPaid-in capital: 31,117.65 million
IAnnual account settlement date: March 31
INo. of employees: 2,854
including 441 employees temporarily assigned to other companies and contract employees
(368 employees temporarily assigned and 73 contract employees) (as of March 31, 2008)
IMain banks: Mizuho Bank, Resona Bank, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ
Yakult Honsha: Manufacturing and marketing of food and beverage products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals,
and others
Marketing companies: Distribution of Yakults products
Bottling companies: Bottling, commercialization, and container production
President
Sumiya Hori
Senior Managing Directors
Akira Katsumata
(Divisional General Manager, Cosmetics Division)
Naomasa Tsuritani
(Divisional General Manager, Management Support Division)
Ryuichiro Tanaka
(Divisional General Manager, R&D Division and Director of
the Yakult Central Institute for Microbiological Research)
Tamotsu Tomibe
(Divisional General Manager, Food & Beverages Sales Division)
Ryuji Chino
(Divisional General Manager, Production Division)
Kiyoshi Terada
(Divisional General Manager, Pharmaceuticals Division)
Managing Directors
Yoshihiro Kawabata
(Divisional General Manager, International Business Division)
Managing Directors
Tsuyoshi Kinugasa
(Divisional General Manager, Administrative Division)
Chizuka Kai
Takashige Negishi
Directors
Yasufumi Murata
Masahiro Negishi
Shigeyoshi Sakamoto
Hiroshi Narita
Haruji Sawada
Akinori Abe
Directors (Part-time)
Jacques Vincent (Outside)
Emmanuel Faber (Outside)
Sven Thormahlen (Outside)
Marcel Bertaud (Outside)
Directors (Part-time)
Shouji Ikegami
Masayuki Takemura
Toshihiro Araki
Tetsuya Hoshino
Yasuhisa Abe
Senior Corporate Auditors
Katsumi Ohtsubo
Takeyoshi Tanaka
Corporate Auditors
Teruo Nakamura
Akihiko Okudaira (Outside)
Ryohei Sumiya (Outside)
Masahiko Ikeda (Outside)
Seijuro Tanigawa (Outside)
Hokkaido Branch: Odori Koen Bldg. 6F, 6-10-10, Odori Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 060-0042 TEL: 011-231-8960
Tohoku Branch: Daiwa Securities Sendai Bldg. 10F, 2-8-13, Chuo, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi 980-0021 TEL: 022-713-8960
Kanto Branch: Shimbashi MCV Bldg. 6F, 5-13-5, Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0004 TEL: 03-5470-7561
Tokyo Branch: 2-39-8, Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0072 TEL: 03-3373-8960
Chubu Kanagawa Branch: 2-5-10, Kugenumashinmei, Fujisawa-shi, Kanagawa 251-0021 TEL: 0466-28-8960
Tokai Branch: MANHYO Dai-ichi Bldg. 5F, 2-12-14, Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi 460-0003 TEL: 052-201-8960
Kinki Branch: Uemura Nissei Bldg. 7F, 3-3-31, Miyahara, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 532-0003 TEL: 06-6392-8960
Chu-shikoku Branch: Okayama Symphony Bldg. 9F, 1-5-1, Omote-cho, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-0822 TEL: 086-226-8960
Kyushu Branch: Denki Bldg. Honkan 2F, 2-1-82, Watanabe-dori, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka 810-0004 TEL: 092-711-8960
Fukushima Plant: 10-1, Aza Tooki, Kuroiwa, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima 960-8520 TEL: 024-546-8960
Ibaraki Plant: 1232-2, Oaza Kawatsuma, Goka-machi, Sashima-gun, Ibaraki 306-0314 TEL: 0280-84-2121
Shonan Cosmetics Plant: 2-5-10, Kugenumashinmei, Fujisawa-shi, Kanagawa 251-0021 TEL: 0466-25-8960
Fuji Susono Plant: 653-1, Aza Juzaburo, Shimowada, Susono-shi, Shizuoka 410-1105 TEL: 055-997-3311
Fuji Susono Pharmaceutical Plant: 653-1, Aza Juzaburo, Shimowada, Susono-shi, Shizuoka 410-1105 TEL: 055-997-4417
Shizuoka Plant: 2-6-7, Kuniyoshida, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka-shi, Shizuoka 422-8004 TEL: 054-262-8960
Kyoto Plant: 38, Tohachi, Makishima-cho, Uji-shi, Kyoto 611-0041 TEL: 0774-22-8960
Fukuyama Plant: 5253, Kamura-cho, Fukuyama-shi, Hiroshima 729-0112 TEL: 084-934-8960
Saga Plant: 2300, Tamichigari, Kanzaki-machi, Kanzaki-shi, Saga 842-0002 TEL: 0952-52-3161
Kumamoto Plant: 3-24-1, Kamikumamoto, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto 860-0079 TEL: 096-324-8960
Yakult Central Institute for Microbiological Research: 1796, Yaho, Kunitachi-shi, Tokyo 186-8650 TEL: 042-577-8960
Principal Subsidiaries
Yakult Kyudan Co., Ltd.
Yakult Corporation Co., Ltd.
Yakult Materials Co., Ltd.
Yakult Food Industry Co., Ltd.
Yakult Higashi Nihon Logistics Co., Ltd.
Yakult Chuo Logistics Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nishi Nihon Logistics Co., Ltd.
Yakult Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd.
Nihon Chlorella Co., Ltd.
PROF I L E
HI STORY
NETWORK
Board of Directors
Board of Auditors
Corporate Auditors
Managing Directors
Committee
Management Policy
Council
President
Research &
Development Division
Production Division
International Business
Division
Pharmaceuticals Division
Cosmetics Division
Administrative Division
Food and Beverages
Sales Division
Management Support
Division
IR Section
Environmental Measures
Section
Internal Control
Department
Customer Support Center
Account Operations Center
Human Resources Development Center
Legal Department
Public Relations Department
Corporate Planning Department
Food Quality Control Department
Auditing Department
Information Systems Department
Finance & Accounting Department
Personnel Department
General Affairs Department
Secretarial Department
Food and Beverage Sales Management Department
Home Delivery Business Department
Route Delivery Department
Branches
Advertising Department
Logistics Control Department
Shonan Cosmetics Plant
Cosmetics Department
Fuji Susono Pharmaceutical Plant
Pharmacovigilance Department
Pharmaceutical Development Department
Pharmaceutical Sales & Marketing Department
Pharmaceutical Department
Quality Assurance Unit
Liaison Office
International Business Department
Plants
Purchasing Department
Production Control Department
Yakult Central Institute for Microbiological Research
Development Department
Regulatory Affairs Department
Sales Company Modernization Department
Yakult Honsha European Center
for Microbiology ESV (YHER)
*1 Gain on the return of the managed portion of pension benefits to the government.
*2 Extraordinary gains of 3,653 million yen were recorded in fiscal 2005 for reversal of retirement benefit past employment-service liabilities.
(Unit: million yen)
1960s 1970 1968 1978 1979 1995 1998 1999 1994 2005
Over 70 Years of Work for Better Health
Campto Injection Elplat Bansoreicha Yakult 400 Joie Yakult (Glass bottle) Yakult (Plastic container) Mil-Mil Yakult Seichoyaku Parabio Series
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O1940s
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O1970s
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O1980s
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O1990s
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O2000s
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2008
IDr. Minoru Shirota succeeds in culturing and utilizing lactic acid
bacteria, useful for maintaining health (L. casei strain Shirota).
IYakult is manufactured and introduced to the market.
IYakult is registered as a trademark.
ILocal offices of the Association for Promotion of Preventive
Bacteria Strain Shirota are established in various parts of Japan
for the purpose of marketing and distributing Yakult.
IYakult Honsha Co., Ltd. is established. (Nishi Hatchobori,
Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
IResearch Institute is established in Kyoto.
IYakult launches its unique Yakult Ladies system of door-to-door
distribution.
IYakult Co., Ltd. (Taiwan) begins operations as the companys
first overseas operation base.
IYakult Central Institute for Microbiology Research is established
in Kunitachi, Tokyo.
IThe company takes over the management of the Sankei Atoms
baseball team (now the Yakult Swallows).
IYakult S/A Ind. E. Com. (Brazil) begins operations.
IYakult is introduced to the market in a new plastic container.
IHong Kong Yakult Co., Ltd. begins operations.
IJoie fermented milk is introduced to the market.
IThe company begins the full-scale sale of cosmetics.
IYakult (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and Korea Yakult Co., Ltd. begin
operations.
INew head office building is completed in Higashi Shimbashi,
Minato-ku, Tokyo.
IProgram of regular visits to senior citizens by Yakult Ladies
begins.
IBiolactis Capsules ethical drug is introduced to the healthcare
industry, thereby marking Yakults entrance into the
pharmaceutical business.
ISofuhl fermented milk is introduced to the market.
IYakult Philippines, Inc. is established.
IMil-Mil fermented milk developed through the direct culture
of bifidobacteria is introduced to the market.
IYakult (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. begins operations.
IThe company verifies the anticancer effect of lactobacillus YIT
9018 and begins the development of a lactobacilli-based
anticancer drug.
IYakult Seichoyaku intestinal regulator an over-the-counter
medicine is introduced to the healthcare industry.
ICompany stocks are listed on the Second Section of the Tokyo
Stock Exchange.
IToughman health drink is introduced to the market.
ICompany stocks are listed on the First Section of the Tokyo
Stock Exchange.
IYakult S.A. De C.V. (Mexico) begins operations.
IYakult 80 fermented milk drink is introduced to the market.
IMil-Mil E fermented milk is introduced to the market.
IFuji Susono Plant is completed for dairy-product manufacturing.
IFacilities for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and beverages
are completed at the Fuji Susono Plant.
ICalorian enriched nutritional liquid food product is introduced
to the market.
IRevecy S.E. series is introduced to the market.
IBifiel, fermented milk containing bifidobacteria, is introduced to
the market.

IThe company files an application with the Ministry of Health
and Welfare for the approval to manufacture LC9018
immunitherapeutic anticancer agent (product name, Lemonal
Injection).
IP.T. Yakult Indonesia Persada begins operations.
IRepresentative office is opened in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
IYakult 80 Ace fermented milk drink is introduced to the market.
IBioscience Research Foundation is established.
IYakult Australia Pty. Ltd. and Yakult Nederland B.V. begin
operations.
IThe manufacture of the CPT-11 chemotherapeutic anticancer
drug is approved, and the drug is introduced to the healthcare
industry under the brand name Campto Injection.
IThe company receives the Minister for Health and Welfare
Award for distinguished volunteer service on behalf of the
program of regular visits to senior citizens.
IYakult Belgium S.A./N.V. begins operations.
IThe sale of the CPT-11 chemotherapeutic anticancer drug is
approved in France as a therapeutic drug for progressive
recurrent intractable colorectal cancer.
IParabio Series premium-quality skincare product line is
introduced to the market.
IYakult BL Seichoyaku intestinal regulator which combines
bifidobacteria and lactobacilli is introduced to the market.
IYakult Europe B.V. is established.
IYakult UK Ltd. and Yakult Deutschland GmbH begin operations.
IYakult Distribution Center is completed. (currently 6 distribution
centers)
IThe sale of the CPT-11 chemotherapeutic anticancer drug is
approved in the U.S. as a therapeutic drug for progressive
recurrent intractable colorectal cancer.
IFuji Susono Plant receives ISO9002 certification.
*(The ISO9002 standard, as a result of ISO standard revisions, was
integrated into the ISO9001 standard as of October 2002.)
IYakult Argentina S.A. begins operations.
IThe company receives the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry, and
Fisheries Award (in the Consumer Division) at the Excellent
Corporations of Food Industry Awards.
IRevecy-N Series skincare product line is introduced to the
market.
ITen Yakult plants and one subsidiary plant receive HACCP
(Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) approval for total
hygienic control in their production processes.
*All the food plants (ten Yakult plants and nine subsidiary plants) had
obtained approval as of October 2001.
IYakult is approved by the Ministry of Health and Welfare for
labeling as Foods for Specified Health Uses.
IBansoreicha is introduced to the market.
ISpherex arterial embolization material is introduced to the
healthcare industry.
IYakult 80 Ace, Yakult LT, Joie, Mil-Mil, and Mil-Mil E are
approved by the Ministry of Health and Welfare for labeling as
Foods for Specified Health Uses.
IYakult 400 fermented milk drink is introduced to the market.
IBifiel, Yakult 400, and Sofuhl are approved by the Ministry of
Health and Welfare for labeling as Foods for Specified Health
Uses.
IThe cancer prevention efficacy of L. casei strain Shirota is
announced at the 58th General Meeting of the Japan Cancer
Society.
IKyoto plant receives ISO14001 certification.
*Twelve Yakult plants, the Chemical and Microbiological Analysis Center,
Nihon Chlorella, nine subsidiary plants, and one distribution company
have obtained certification as of July 31, 2007.
IBansoreicha is approved by the Ministry of Health and Welfare
for labeling as Foods for Specified Health Uses.
IThe company receives an award from the Nihon Shokuryo
Shimbun (Japan Food Stuff Newspaper) for contributions to the
development of the food industry during the 20th century.
IFuji Susono Pharmaceutical Plant expansion completed.
IPurela soft yogurt is introduced to the market.
I21st century Food and Health Forum is held. (subsequently held
annually)
IYakult Swallows win their sixth league championship and fifth
Japan Series title.
IWorlds first Automatic Intestinal Flora Analysis System is
developed.
IGuangzhou Yakult Co., Ltd. begins operations.
IKurozu Drink is introduced to the market.
ICosmetic brand Posh Mama is introduced to the market.
ICampto Injection wins the Chairmans Prize from Japan Institute
of Invention and Innovation.
IVending machine sales alliance is established with Kirin Beverage.
IYakult (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. begins operations.
INew Toughman and Toughman V are introduced to the market.
IEntered into a strategic alliance with Groupe Danone.
ISales of Yakult are begun in New Zealand.
IThe Revecy Series, a new foundation cosmetic line, is introduced
to the market.
IPretio (Food for Specified Health Uses), a fermented milk drink is
introduced to the market.
IShanghai Yakult Co., Ltd. begins operations.
ISales of Yakult are begun in Ireland.
IYakult 300V is introduced to the market.
IResearch center is established in Europe (Belgium).
IYakult (China) Co., Ltd. is established to oversee operations in
China.
IOxaliplatin, a drug for treating malignant tumors, is approved
for import and introduced to the market under the name Elplat.
ISigned a memorandum of understanding with Kirin Brewery
Co., Ltd. and Kirin Beverage Corporation to enter into a
business partnership focusing on health and functional foods.
ICo-sponsored the FINA World Swimming Championships as an
Official FINA Partner.
IDecision made to enter the Indian market in alliance with
Groupe Danone.
IThree types of Bifiene, the new yogurt drink, are introduced to
the market.
IBeijing Yakult Co., Ltd. begins operations.
IYakult Oesterreich GmbH begins operations.
ISofuhl LCS 100 is introduced to the market.
IThe name of Yakults line of beauty products was changed to
Yakult Beautiens.
IOur new line of basic cosmetics, Uruou Series, is introduced to
the market.
IThe process of acquiring ISO9001 and ISO14001 certification of
marketing companies begins (integrated certification).
IOur new corporate slogan is decided : Healthier People, a
Healthier World.
IYakult BL Seichoyaku S Tablets, containing L. casei strain Shirota
and B. breve strain Yakult, are introduced to the market.
IYakult acquires day care & education firm Petit Co., Ltd.
IShanghai Yakult Marketing Co., Ltd. begins operations.
IYakult 300VLT is introduced to the market.
IYakult Science Research Lab pavilion opened at KidZania Tokyo.
IKirin Yakult NextStage Co., Ltd. is established.
IThe Yakult Crime and Disaster Prevention Council is established
and a memorandum of understanding is concluded with the
Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department regarding crime-
prevention.
IYakult Italia S.r.l. begins operations.
IBifiene is introduced on the European market.
IBifia, fermented dairy beverage containing bifidobacteria, is
introduced to the market.
IYakults Bifiene M and Bifiene S are approved for labeling as
Foods for Specified Health Uses.
ILocal representative office of Yakult established in the United
Arab Emirates (UAE).
IYakult Seinyu Tappuri Yogurt (raw milk yogurt) (80g) is
introduced to the market.
IYakult Iwate Plant is completed.
INew plant building at Ibaragi Plant is completed.
ISales of Yakult are begun in California, USA.
ISales of Sofl Drink Type are begun in Mexico.
IAdvanced Parabio Series is introduced to the market.
IYakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd. begins operations.
IPan-industry social event is held with Toyota Central R&D Labs.
of the Toyota group.
IIntroduction of the eco-friendly cars (hybrid vehicles) as
commercial vehicles for use in the pharmaceutical business.
ISoft type yogurt Puara Peach is introduced to the market.
IAdvanced Parabio Series base make-up skincare product is
introduced to the market.
IShonan Cosmetics Plant is completed. Conducted tour begin.
IYakult Vietnam Co., Ltd. begins operations.
IYakult Aichi Plant is completed.
IBF-1, a new type fermented dairy beverage containing the
bifidobacteria B. Bifidam BF-1 Strain is introduced to the
market.
IYakult participates in Team minus 6%, the global warming
prevention national movement that the Ministry of the
Environment promotes.
IChosei Tonyu Kokusandaizu Shiyo is introduced to the market.
Recognized as a Food for Specified Health Uses, it offers to
improve the eating habits of those who are concerned about
cholesterol.
IYakult SHEs is introduced to the market.
ICorporate History
IHistory of Products
HI STORY
NETWORK NETWORK
PROFI LE
Head Office 1
Branches 9
Research and Development
institute 1
Honsha plants 10
Marketing companies 127
Bottling companies 6
Yakult Ladies
approx. 42,000
Yakult Beauty Advisors
approx. 7,700
(as of June 1, 2008)
Promoting Better Health through
Domestic and International Networks
The Yakult Group comprises nearly 170 companies (approximately 190 counting overseas
operations), including Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd., marketing companies that distribute
Yakults products to customers throughout Japan, bottling companies that manufacture
containers and bottle Yakults products, and other affiliates.
Domestic Operations
Yakult Co., Ltd. (Taiwan)
Hong Kong Yakult Co., Ltd.
Yakult (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Korea Yakult Co., Ltd.
Yakult Philippines, Inc.
Yakult (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
P.T. Yakult Indonesia Persada
Yakult Australia Pty. Ltd.
(New Zealand Branch)
Yakult (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
Yakult Vietnam Co., Ltd.
Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd.
Yakult (China) Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou Yakult Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Yakult Co., Ltd.
Beijing Yakult Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Yakult Marketing Co., Ltd.
Yakult S/A Ind. E. Com. (Brazil)
Yakult S.A. De C.V. (Mexico)
Yakult Argentina S.A.
Yakult U.S.A. Inc.
Yakult Europe B.V.
Yakult Nederland B.V.
Yakult Belgium S.A./N.V.
Yakult UK Ltd. (Ireland Branch)
Yakult Deutschland GmbH
Yakult Oesterreich GmbH
Yakult Italia S.r.l.
Yakult Honsha European Center for
Microbiology ESV (YHER)
Countries where products are also sold
(excluding test sales in Luxembourg, France, Spain, Brunei, Uruguay, and Canada)
Yakult Ladies 5,450
Yakult Beauty Advisors
810
Honsha Organization
Chubu Kanagawa Branch
Shonan Cosmetics Plant
Fuji Susono Plant
Fuji Susono Pharmaceutical
Plant
Shizuoka Plant
Marketing companies (18)
Yakult Yokohama Chuo Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kita Keihin Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Sagami Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kawasaki Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Shonan Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Odawara Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Atsugi Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Sobu Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Higashi Shizuoka Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Chuo Shizuoka Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nishi Shizuoka Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Yamanashi Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nanshin Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Hokushin Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Niigata Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nagaoka Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Shibata Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Joetsu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ladies 5,550
Yakult Beauty Advisors
920
Honsha Organization
Kinki Branch
Kyoto Plant
Marketing companies (15)
Yakult Keiji Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kyoraku Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Osaka Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Suita Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Sennari Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Sakai Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Osaka Tobu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Minami Osaka Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nara Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Wakayama Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Hanshin Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kobe Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Hyogo Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Himeji Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Awaji Sales Co., Ltd.
Bottling companies (2)
Yakult Osaka Plant
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kobe Plant
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ladies 4,550
Yakult Beauty Advisors
700
Honsha Organization
Tokai Branch
Marketing companies (9)
Yakult Takayama Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Higashi Aichi Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Tokai Co., Ltd.
*The following four marketing
companies (Gifu, Nagoya, Nishi
Mikawa, and Mie) are
generalized.
Yakult Gifu Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nagoya Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nishi Mikawa Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Mie Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Owari Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Higashi Mikawa Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Toyama Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ishikawa Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nanao Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Fukui Sales Co., Ltd.
Bottling company (1)
Yakult Aichi Plant
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ladies 4,750
Yakult Beauty Advisors
1,820
Honsha Organization
Chu-shikoku Branch
Fukuyama Plant
Marketing companies (17)
Yakult Tottori Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Sanin Chuo Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Shimane Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Okayama Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Tsuyama Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Okayama Seibu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Aki Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Hiroshima Chuo Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Hiroshima Hokubu
Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Yamaguchi Tobu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Yamaguchi Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kagawa Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Tokushima Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kochi Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Matsuyama Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ehime Tobu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ehime Nanbu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Chubu Kanagawa Block Kinki Block Tokai Block Chu-shikoku Block Kyushu Block
Yakult Ladies 5,550
Yakult Beauty Advisors
700
Honsha Organization
Kyushu Branch
Saga Plant
Kumamoto Plant
Marketing companies (18)
Yakult Kitakyushu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Tochiku Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Fukuoka Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Minami Fukuoka Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kurume Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Oita Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Saga Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Nagasaki Co., Ltd.
Yakult Sasebo Co., Ltd.
Yakult Goto Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Iki Tsushima Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kumamoto Co., Ltd.
Yakult Miyazaki Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Miyakonojo Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Sendai Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kagoshima Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kagoshima Tobu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Okinawa Co., Ltd.
Bottling companies (1)
Yakult Fukuoka Plant
Co., Ltd.
Tohoku Block
Yakult Ladies 4,150
Yakult Beauty Advisors
320
Honsha Organization
Tohoku Branch
Fukushima Plant
Marketing companies (16)
Yakult Aomori Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Iwate Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Miyako Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ofunato Sales Ltd.
Yakult Akita Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Odate Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Yokote Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Yamagata Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Yonezawa Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Shonai Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Miyagi Chuo Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ishinomaki Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Fukushima Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Koriyama Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Aizu Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Iwaki Sales Co., Ltd.
Bottling company (1)
Yakult Iwate Plant
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ladies 2,600
Yakult Beauty Advisors
1,460
Honsha Organization
Hokkaido Branch
Marketing companies (13)
Yakult Sapporo Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Otaru Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Muroran Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Tomakomai Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Iwamizawa Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Hakodate Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kushiro Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Obihiro Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kitami Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kita Hokkaido Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Rumoi Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Wakkanai Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Monbetsu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Hokkaido Block
Yakult Ladies 6,300
Yakult Beauty Advisors
800
Honsha Organization
Kanto Branch
Ibaraki Plant
Marketing companies (12)
Yakult Saitama Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Saitama Tobu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Kazo Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Saitama Nishi Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Saitama Hokubu Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Chiba Chuo Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Boso Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Mito Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Koga Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Utsunomiya Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ryomo Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Gunma Sales
Co., Ltd.
Bottling company (1)
Yakult Chiba Plant
Co., Ltd.
Kanto Block Tokyo Block
Yakult Ladies 3,100
Yakult Beauty Advisors
170
Honsha Organization
Head Office
Tokyo Branch
Yakult Central Institute for
Microbiological Research
Marketing companies (9)
Yakult Sumida Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Johoku Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Katsushika Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Toto Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Seito Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Tama Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Musashino Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Chuo Tokyo Sales
Co., Ltd.
Yakult Keihoku Sales Co., Ltd.
Yakult Ladies
approx. 36,000
Employees approx. 11,600
(as of May 31, 2008)
Overseas Operations
Overseas
Domestic
Certifications Obtained
IISO9001 IISO14001 IHACCP IGMP
*GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice. Facilities that employ GMPs for food.
*Symbols are shown next to facilities when at least one of their offices or factories has gained the relevant certification.
When multiple offices or factories have gained a particular certification, each will have done so under conditions unique to
the office or factory.
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NETWORK NETWORK
HI STORY
PROFI LE