Biore parent Kao weighs slashing brand lineup as profit declines

Sprawling Japanese consumers goods group envisions leaner cosmetics business

Kao is tackling major reforms as its net profit heads toward a fifth year of decline in 2023. (Source photos by Nikkei, Kao)

HIROMOTO DEGUCHI, Nikkei staff writer

September 27, 2023 05:04 JST

TOKYO -- Japanese consumer goods giant Kao is considering sell-offs of certain cosmetics brands, as mounting financial headwinds pressure the group to pare its extensive portfolio.

"Kao must urgently transform -- that's the most important thing," director Toru Nishiguchi said during a presentation Tuesday to analysts and other market watchers.