Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Otsuka Foods Co., Ltd.

Corporate
November 14, 2014

Otsuka Group Establishes New Company in Order to Strengthen Presence in Vending Machine Market

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Head office: Tokyo; President and Representative Director: Taro Iwamoto) and Otsuka Foods Co., Ltd. (Head office: Osaka; President and Representative Director: Sadanobu Tobe) have announced the establishment of Otsuka Wellness Vending Co., Ltd., a new corporate subsidiary that will focus on the vending machine business. Established in response to changes in the business climate, the new company will take over vending machine operations for both parent companies from January 5, 2015.

Otsuka Wellness Vending will focus on developing new products, services and sales channels aligned with consumer needs for Otsuka Group foods and beverages. Increasing the scope and efficiency of vending machines, a favored purchase option for countless consumers, will contribute to consumer convenience as well as strengthen key Otsuka Group nutraceutical and consumer product businesses.

Aiming to begin business activities in January 2015, the new company is currently focusing on strengthening its financial position and building an efficient organization to enable it to respond nimbly to changes in the business climate in the years to come. Parent organizations, Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Otsuka Foods, will continue to conduct their enterprises in all areas except the vending machine business.

Based on its corporate philosophy of "Otsuka-people creating new products for better health worldwide," Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. will continue to contribute to the health and wellbeing of people around the world.

Profile of New Subsidiary