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Kirin
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Global beverages, pharmaceuticals, and biotech conglomerate
Kirin
Work Here?
Global beverages, pharmaceuticals, and biotech conglomerate
Overview
Kirin is a diversified global group that blends beverages, health science, and biotechnology to offer consumer drinks and health therapeutics. Its fermentation expertise supports functional ingredients like LC-Plasma and Kyowa Kirin develops cancer and rare-disease therapies, leveraging a large global manufacturing and distribution network. The company differentiates itself by combining a biotech drug platform with consumer products and strong ESG practices, including 100% recycled PET packaging and a net-zero footprint, funded by the Kirin Health Innovation Fund. Its goal is to create long-term value by harmonizing nature, science, and industry to improve health and sustainability.
About Kirin
Industries
Industrial & Manufacturing
Biotechnology
Healthcare
Consumer Goods
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
IPO
Headquarters
Tokyo, Japan
Founded
1907
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Q2 FY2026 raised NOP guidance to JPY 253 billion and EPS to JPY 200.
- Cognizin launches in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore expand consumer-health revenue quickly.
- AI-native R&D with GenerativeX can accelerate hypothesis generation and lower research cycle time.
What critics are saying
- Jamieson's C$2.5 billion deal closes in Q4 2026, creating execution and integration pressure.
- James Boag brewery closure in November 2026 destroys 42 jobs and damages morale.
- Kirin is selling Kyowa Pharma Chemical and Four Roses, shrinking legacy cash generators.
What makes Kirin unique
- Kirin's fermentation platform spans beverages, supplements, and pharmaceuticals across Asia, Oceania, and North America.
- Blackmores Cognition Ultra launched July 2026, proving cross-brand science-to-market execution.
- Jamieson acquisition on Aug. 3, 2026 extends Kirin's health science platform into North America.
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Kirin and GenerativeX Transform the Future of Research and Development with AI. Aug 14, 2026, 03:00 ET Introducing a New Model for Co-Creation with Researchers TOKYO, Aug. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin Holdings) and FDE consulting firm GenerativeX Inc. (GenerativeX) have developed a new research style that incorporates AI agents directly into research activities, with the aim of enhancing researchers' creativity. The initiative was launched in 2026 in select research divisions at Kirin. Through this initiative, Kirin and GenerativeX aim to realize an "AI-native research environment" that supports the entire research process, from hypothesis generation to knowledge sharing, while staying closely aligned with researchers' thinking processes. 1. Background In recent years, advances in generative AI have expanded the use of AI into areas that have traditionally depended on researchers' advanced thinking, such as literature searches and hypothesis generation. At the same time, AI implementation in companies has often remained limited to improving operational efficiency, such as document creation and search. In research and development settings, researchers also face the issue of "fragmented thinking," in which their thought processes are repeatedly interrupted by information searches, searches for past materials, organizing hypotheses, and sharing information. This has made it difficult for researchers to focus on the creative activities that should be their primary focus. 2. Overview In this initiative, Kirin and GenerativeX have built and begun operating a research environment that combines Kirin's vision for research with GenerativeX's AI development capabilities by incorporating AI agents into the flow of research activities. Kirin is responsible for designing the research concept and applying it in research settings, while GenerativeX provides AI technologies and implements the system. The system is currently being used in select research laboratories, with future expansion across the Group also under consideration. Key Features of This Research Style * Design that incorporates AI into the research flow AI is constantly present within the flow of research activities, rather than being called upon by researchers only when needed. * Real-time support that keeps thinking uninterrupted The system provides integrated support for hypothesis generation, information searches, brainstorming, documentation, and knowledge sharing. * A researcher-centered design philosophy AI functions not as a replacement for researchers, but as a collaborative partner that helps bring out their creativity. * From individual knowledge to co-created organizational knowledge Hypotheses, discussions, and exploration histories are accumulated and made available for use across the organization. Development Process The system has been developed in an agile manner while incorporating feedback from researchers. It has been designed by aligning the functions that researchers actually want to use with the possibilities offered by AI technologies. Researchers involved in the development process have recognized the system as a tool suited to their own research activities. Another key feature of this initiative is that AI is being used not merely as a tool for improving operational efficiency, but as a means of supporting the intellectual and creative activity of research itself. The initiative is expected to expand the potential for exploring new hypotheses, promote cross-disciplinary integration, and improve the quality of research. 3. Future Developments Going forward, Kirin and GenerativeX will further enhance the system's functions to better understand each researcher's expertise and research themes, detect signs of emerging issues, propose hypotheses, and promote collaboration among researchers. In the future, the companies aim to create an environment in which AI naturally exists as an integral part of research, becoming a natural and seamless part of the research environment without researchers having to consciously think about using it. 4. About GenerativeX Inc. GenerativeX Inc. is a Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE) consulting firm established in 2023. The company specializes in supporting business transformation for enterprises through the use of AI agents, providing services to major clients in Japan and overseas across industries such as finance, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Headquartered in Marunouchi, Tokyo, GenerativeX also has offices in San Francisco and New York, and is expanding its business globally. The Kirin Group will steadily advance the two pillars of digital utilization set out in "KIRIN Digital Vision 2035"*: "eliminating work that people do not need to do" through productivity improvements, and "accelerating work that creates value together with people" through value creation. Through manufacturing that looks to nature and people, the Kirin Group will bring new joy in "food and health" to more people and contribute to the realization of a fulfilling society. Press Contacts * Kirin Holdings Company, Limited www.kirinholdings.com/en/ Corporate Communication Department Nakano Central Park South, 4-10-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo Media Contact form https://faq.kirin.co.jp/form/kh_10_en.html TEL: +81-3-6837-7028 * GenerativeX Inc. https://gen-x.co.jp/ 27F Marunouchi Building, 2-4-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo TEL: +81-50-1807-2433 About Kirin Holdings Kirin Holdings Company, Limited is a global company operating across three core business domains spanning Alcoholic Beverages, Non-alcoholic Beverages & Health Science, and Pharmaceuticals. The company traces its roots to Japan Brewery, established in 1885, which later became Kirin Brewery in 1907. Since then, Kirin has expanded its business operations by leveraging fermentation and biotechnology as core strengths. The company entered the pharmaceutical field in the 1980s, which has since grown into a global business. In 2007, the company transitioned to a pure holding company structure as Kirin Holdings, and it is now strengthening its Non-alcoholic Beverages & Health Science domain. Under its long-term vision "Innovate2035!", the Kirin Group is focused on creating value that encourages behavioral change among consumers and patients, creating new lifestyle habits in the areas of food and health. With a unique business portfolio spanning Alcoholic Beverages, Non-alcoholic Beverages & Health Science, and Pharmaceuticals, the Group will further expand group-wide initiatives that support both mental and physical well-being. The Kirin Group will continue to advance innovation through the combined strength of its people and technology, creating both social and economic value as a global leader in CSV*, while pursuing sustainable, long-term growth in corporate value. *Creating Shared Value: combined added value for consumers as well as for society at large. SOURCE GenerativeX
Kirin aims to build North American business platform with Jamieson Wellness acquisition. 06-Aug-2026 Last updated on 06-Aug-2026 at 22:53 GMT The acquisition of Jamieson Wellness represents a significant step in expanding Kirin's Health Science business into North America, said Kirin's COO. (Getty Images) Japan's Kirin Holdings Company has agreed to acquire Jamieson Wellness Inc. for C$2.5 billion (US$1.78 billion), and make the Toronto, Canada-based supplements brand a wholly owned subsidiary. Kirin's long-term vision is to become a global leader in improving consumers' physical and mental well-being and has positioned its Health Science business as a key driver of its medium- to long-term growth, according to a notice to the press about the deal. The company states it is committed to becoming the most trusted health science company across Asia, Oceania, and North America. Having acquired Australian supplement firm Blackmores in 2023 and Japanese cosmetics and supplement company FANCL in 2024 to establish a strong foundation in Asia and Oceania, Kirin turned its attention to North America. Kirin believes Jamieson Wellness is an ideal strategic fit because it brings established brands, strong customer relationships, broad distribution networks, and end-to-end capabilities spanning R&D, manufacturing and sales. These strengths are said to complement Kirin's expertise in fermentation, biotechnology and proprietary health ingredients. Explore related questions. "We are delighted to welcome Jamieson Wellness to the Kirin Group," said Takeshi Minakata, COO of Kirin. "This Transaction represents an important milestone in Kirin's long-term growth strategy and a significant step in expanding our Health Science business into North America, the world's largest vitamins and dietary supplements market." "The acquisition of Jamieson Wellness marks an important step in advancing Kirin's Health Science vision to become a global leader in preventative health," added Alastair Symington, CEO & Managing Director of Blackmores Limited. "It brings trusted brands, strong capabilities in innovation, brand building, manufacturing and go-to-market execution, and a scalable platform in the important North American market. Together, Kirin, Blackmores, FANCL and Jamieson Wellness strengthen a global platform now connecting North America, Asia and Oceania." Jamieson Wellness. Founded in 1922, Jamieson Wellness is Canada's leading supplement company by market share. The company expanded its U.S. presence in 2022 with the acquisition of Nutrawise, parent company of the Youtheory, in a deal worth at least $210 million. Earlier this week Jamieson reported its second quarter results, noting that consolidated revenue increased 17.4% to C$233.8 million. Much of this was driven by its Jamieson brands business, for which revenue increased 18.6% (or C$32.9 million) to C$210.2 million for Q2. Revenue in Canada revenue increased by 5.7% to $91.6 million, while revenue in the U.S. increased by 21.7% on a constant currency basis to C$50.1 million. In China, revenue increased 46.6% on a constant currency basis to C$54.3 million, while other international revenue grew 7.5% on a constant currency basis to C$14.3 million. "Today marks an exciting new chapter for our Company and for our iconic 104-year-old brand," said Mike Pilato, President and CEO of Jamieson Wellness. "From the beginning, it was clear that Kirin recognizes the importance of our heritage, our people, and our Canadian roots. Just as importantly, they are committed to investing in our brands. As a global C$22 billion leader in beverage, natural health, and consumer health, they bring the expertise, reach, and resources to help take our brands to the next level while preserving what has made Jamieson successful for more than a century." The all-cash transaction is subject to several standard closing conditions, including approval by Jamieson Wellness shareholders, court approval, regulatory clearances, and other customary requirements. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Jamieson Wellness to be acquired by Kirin for C$45.75 per Share in cash Represents a 27% premium to the 20-day VWAP of Jamieson Wellness' Shares as of the...
Cognizin(R) Citicoline shows promise for neuromuscular health in new preclinical research. Jul 27, 2026, 08:00 ET Kyowa Hakko will present in vitro findings on the branded ingredient's potential role in neuromuscular junction formation at the American Society for Nutrition's NUTRITION 2026 conference NEW YORK, July 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - New preclinical research on Cognizin(R) Citicoline from Kyowa Hakko investigates the branded ingredient's potential to support the formation of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) - the critical connection between motor neurons and skeletal muscle fibers that governs muscle activation and performance. The findings point to an entirely new dimension of Cognizin's science and its role in the mind-body connection with compelling implications for sports nutrition and healthy aging formulations. Cognizin, which is backed by decades of extensive clinical studies, is now the subject of research in a new area: neuromuscular health. The NMJ is the specialized synapse through which motor neurons signal skeletal muscle to contract - and its integrity is central to muscle strength, coordination, and functional movement. Age-related deterioration of the NMJ is increasingly recognized as a key contributor to muscle weakness and decline in physical performance, making it a high-interest target for both sports nutrition and healthy aging applications. The study, conducted by researchers at the Institute of Health Sciences at Kirin Holdings Company, the parent company of Kyowa Hakko, used an established in vitro neuromuscular cell model to evaluate Cognizin's effects on NMJ formation. Using gene expression analysis and immunofluorescence imaging, researchers assessed key markers involved in NMJ development, including acetylcholine receptor (AChR) clustering, a critical step in the formation of a functional NMJ. "Consumers and manufacturers alike are increasingly demanding more from cognitive health ingredients, expecting to see real science behind the claims," said Karen Todd, vice president of global brand marketing, Kyowa Hakko USA. "Research like this is exactly why Cognizin continues to stand apart. Our ongoing investment in rigorous clinical and preclinical science gives formulators the validated evidence they need to build products consumers can trust - and it opens doors to exciting new application areas we're only beginning to explore. Awareness of the mind-body connection has grown rapidly in recent years, and these results further highlight its importance - and Cognizin's role in it." The full findings will be presented as a poster by lead author Chihiro Ono of Kirin Holdings during the Sports/Performance Nutrition Poster Session at the American Society for Nutrition's conference in July. The session will be held July 27, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the Prince George's Exhibition Hall (Lower Atrium Level) at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. The poster title is "Citicoline May Strengthen Formation of Neuromuscular Junction by Enhancing Acetylcholine Receptor Clustering in Co-Culture With Neurons and Skeletal Muscle Cells." This research represents the latest chapter in Kyowa Hakko's commitment to advancing the science of Cognizin. For supplement and functional food and beverage manufacturers, it signals an emerging opportunity in sports nutrition and healthy aging formulations backed by a deepening body of evidence. More information about Cognizin is available at Cognizin.com and Kyowa-USA.com. About Kyowa Hakko USA (Kyowa) Kyowa Hakko USA serves as the North and South American headquarters for Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., a global pioneer in specialty ingredients within Kirin Holdings' Health Science group. Building on over 75 years of fermentation innovation and Kirin's 100+ year legacy of fermentation excellence, Kyowa delivers premium, science-backed branded ingredients to the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, functional food, beverage, and wellness industries. The portfolio features branded solutions like Cognizin(R) Citicoline, Setria(R) Glutathione, Pantesin(R) Pantethine, and EYEMUSE(R) Lacticaseibacillus paracasei KW3110. Committed to quality, sustainability, and creating shared value, Kyowa empowers partners to create transformative health solutions, advancing Kirin's vision of improving health and well-being. For more information, visit Kyowa-USA.com. About Cognizin(R) Citicoline Cognizin(R) Citicoline, developed by Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., is a clinically patented form of citicoline with over 35 years of research, development, and application experience. Backed by Kyowa's 75-year legacy of biotech innovation and Kirin Holdings' century-long fermentation expertise, Cognizin(R) is produced through state-of-the-art fermentation technology, ensuring superior purity and quality. Clinically tested to support mental energy, focus, attention, and memory, this premium functional ingredient is GRAS, pure, allergen-free, and highly stable. Trusted by global partners in the nutraceutical and wellness sectors, Cognizin(R) advances Kirin's Health Science mission to enhance quality of life through cognitive health solutions. For more information, visit Cognizin.com. SOURCE Kyowa Hakko U.S.A
Kirin and Blackmores team up to release cognitive function Support supplements in Australia and New Zealand Formulated with Kirin Group's Cognizin(R) Citicoline. * Kirin Holdings and Kirin's Australian group company Blackmores have jointly developed a product designed to enhance cognitive performance. * Formulated with Cognizin(R) Citicoline, a citicoline ingredient from Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., a Kirin Group company. * This product is manufactured at Blackmores' Braeside site in Australia and will be initially launched in Australia and New Zealand from late July 2026. TOKYO-(BUSINESS WIRE)-Jul. 23, 2026 Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin Holdings)(TOKYO:2503) and Blackmores Limited (Blackmores), Kirin's group company and Australia's leading natural health company, are proud to announce the launch of Blackmores Cognition Ultra in Australia and Blackmores Ultra Brain Care in New Zealand. This new supplement is formulated with Cognizin(R) Citicoline, a scientifically supported ingredient from Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., a Kirin Group company, and is Blackmores' first product designed to enhance cognitive performance. This product is made at Blackmores' Braeside manufacturing site and will be available from late July in pharmacies in New Zealand, as well as on Blackmores' e-commerce platform in Australia, followed by the launch in Australian pharmacies from September. Blackmores Cognition Ultra (Australia) Since Blackmores joined the Kirin Group in August 2023, the Group has strengthened its initiatives to address consumer health needs in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, while exploring value creation opportunities and business synergies in the Health Science domain. This product was made possible by combining Blackmores' consumer insight, product development capabilities, and regulatory capabilities with Kyowa Hakko Bio's strength in providing ingredients backed by science-based evidence. Cognitive health is essential for quality of daily life*[1]. In recent years, there has been growing interest in age-related changes in cognitive function and early efforts to maintain brain health. Studies suggest that decline in cognitive function may start in midlife and international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have highlighted the importance of maintaining brain health across the life course[*2]. | 1. National Institute on Aging (NIH) Cognitive Health and Older Adults; | | 2. WHO Optimizing brain health across the life course: WHO position paper; | This product will be launched as a supplement that supports the health of consumers interested in cognitive function, in accordance with applicable regulations in each country and region. Through this launch, the Kirin Group will continue to advance its Creating Shared Value (CSV) management, which aims to create both social and economic value, while pursuing further growth of the Health Science Business in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Alastair Symington, Senior Executive Officer, Kirin Holdings; President, Kirin Health Science International; and CEO & Managing Director, Blackmores Limited, said: "Our purpose is to support people's long-term health by combining the best of nature with science. Leading research highlights the importance of caring for brain health to maintain cognitive function as we age. Blackmores Cognition Ultra and Blackmores Ultra Brain Care are designed to support brain performance, health and function as part of a healthy lifestyle. Together, they reflect our commitment to helping people live well for the long term." Product Overview Blackmores Cognition Ultra (Australia)・Blackmores Ultra Brain Care (New Zealand) This product is a supplement formulated with Cognizin(R), a citicoline ingredient from Kyowa Hakko Bio. "Blackmores Cognition Ultra" in Australia and "Blackmores Ultra Brain Care" in New Zealand share the same formulation and will be launched with labeling that complies with the applicable regulations in each country and region. Designed to communicate Blackmores' quality and product characteristics, featuring the Cognizin(R) logo. Recommended Daily Intake Two tablets once daily, or as prescribed by a health professional. Formulation Contains 250 mg of Cognizin(R) per tablet. "Blackmores Cognition Ultra" in Australia and "Blackmores Ultra Brain Care" in New Zealand share the same formulation. Characteristics The following are the main descriptions planned for display in the launch markets, in accordance with the regulations of each country and region. Blackmores Cognition Ultra (Australia) * Enhance cognitive performance * Improve memory recall and attention * Support information processing * Support focus and clarity * Support brain function * Support brain health in ageing individuals * Caffeine free Blackmores Ultra Brain Care (New Zealand) * Support daily brain performance, health & function * Support mental focus for work/study * Support mental clarity * Readily absorbed to support vital brain function * Support brain clarity in ageing adults * Caffeine free | Product Details | | 1. Product Name and Pack Size | | A. Blackmores Cognition Ultra (Australia) | 30 tablets | | B. Blackmores Ultra Brain Care (New Zealand) | 30 tablets | | 2. Sales Markets | | A. Australia | | B. New Zealand | | 3. Launch Date | | A, B. Late July 2026 | | 4. Sales channels | | A. Blackmores Australia e-commerce platform https://www.blackmores.com.au/products/cognition-ultra | | A. Pharmacy channel from September 2026 onwards | | B. Pharmacy channel | | 5. Retail price | | Blackmores official e-commerce platform price | | A. AUD 45.00 per pack | | B. NZD 41.99 per pack | | Retail prices at pharmacies will be announced by the respective retailers at the time of launch. | | 6. Regulatory Note | | In Australia, Cognizin(R) Citicoline has been listed as a new ingredient by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia's health authority. | | Product claims and indications are subject to, and may vary by, regulatory jurisdiction. | About Kirin Holdings Kirin Holdings Company, Limited is a global company operating across three core business domains spanning Alcoholic Beverages, Non-alcoholic Beverages & Health Science, and Pharmaceuticals. The company traces its roots to Japan Brewery, established in 1885, which later became Kirin Brewery in 1907. Since then, Kirin has expanded its business operations by leveraging fermentation and biotechnology as core strengths. The company entered the pharmaceutical field in the 1980s, which has since grown into a global business. In 2007, the company transitioned to a pure holding company structure as Kirin Holdings, and it is now strengthening its Non-alcoholic Beverages & Health Science domain. Under its long-term vision "Innovate2035!", the Kirin Group is focused on creating value that encourage behavioral change among consumers and patients, creating new lifestyle habits in the areas of food and health. With a unique business portfolio spanning Alcoholic Beverages, Non-alcoholic Beverages & Health Science, and Pharmaceuticals, the Group will further expand group-wide initiatives that support both mental and physical well-being. The Kirin Group will continue to advance innovation through the combined strength of its people and technology, creating both social and economic value as a global leader in CSV*, while pursuing sustainable, long-term growth in corporate value. | *Creating Shared Value: combined added value for consumers as well as for society at large. | Press Contact Corporate Communication Department Kirin Holdings Company, Limited www.kirinholdings.com/en/ Nakano Central Park South, 4-10-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo Media contact https://faq.kirin.co.jp/form/kh_10_en.html Tel: +81-3-6837-7028 e-mail: [email protected]
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About Kirin
Industries
Industrial & Manufacturing
Biotechnology
Healthcare
Consumer Goods
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
IPO
Headquarters
Tokyo, Japan
Founded
1907
Kirin is Hiring for 7 Jobs on Simplify!
Find jobs on Simplify and start your career today