- Business
- Kikkoman Corporation engages in the manufacture and sale of food products, primarily specializing in naturally brewed soy sauce, food seasonings and flavorings, mirin, shōchū, beverages, and wines. The company also offers processed foods, pharmaceutical ingredients, clinical diagnostic reagents, hygiene inspection agents, and processing enzymes like hyaluronic acid. Its business operates through four segments: Domestic Foods-Manufacturing and Sales, Domestic Others (including pharmaceuticals and chemical products), Overseas Foods-Manufacturing and Sales, and Overseas Foods-Wholesale. Kikkoman manages a diverse portfolio including the Del Monte processed foods brand in Asia and a range of health foods overseas, serving markets worldwide including Japan, North America, India, and other international regions. Founded in 1917 and headquartered in Noda, Japan, Kikkoman emphasizes culinary international exchange with its soy sauce sold in over 100 countries.
Recent major developments include the launch of a natural dark soy sauce tailored for the Indian market produced locally as part of the Make in India initiative, expanding its product presence in South Asia. The company also strengthened its food safety and hygiene technology offerings through an expanded partnership with LuminUltra to introduce advanced microbiological monitoring tools across North America, enhancing food safety solutions globally. In 2024, Kikkoman executed a share buyback program acquiring over 1.8 million shares to optimize its capital structure. Additionally, its U.S. subsidiary JFC International introduced an organic version of its flagship Nishiki Rice in 2025, aligning with consumer trends toward health consciousness and sustainability. Kikkoman continues to innovate and expand strategically in both traditional food products and biotechnology-related segments, reinforcing its position as a global leader in food manufacturing and safety technologies.