Earth Corporation Celebrates 100 Years of Innovation and Community
In 2025, Earth Corporation, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is set to celebrate a significant milestone—its 100th anniversary. Established on August 26, 1925, the company initially focused on the manufacturing and sale of household medicines and has remained dedicated to addressing the needs and concerns of its customers. This commitment has shaped the company's mission to protect the daily comfort, health, and peace of mind of people everywhere.
As Earth Corporation reflects on its storied past, it recognizes that this achievement is a collective accomplishment, made possible by the ongoing support of its loyal customers and the tireless efforts of its employees. CEO Katsuyuki Kawabata expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support over the years and assured stakeholders that the company will continue to innovate and evolve. "In the face of an increasingly complex and diverse society, we perceive these changes as opportunities for corporate evolution, and we pledge to remain a presence that empowers life and living" he stated.
The Connection to Akō City
As part of its centennial celebrations, Earth Corporation is collaborating with Akō City, the birthplace of the company. A series of events are planned to commemorate this special occasion. The first event took place on June 4, 2025, where new station signs were unveiled at JR Banshu-Akō Station and JR Sakoshi Station, dubbing Akō as the home of 'Chūshingura' and showcasing the importance of the region in the company’s history.
In the next phase, the company aims to strengthen its ties with the community by installing five specially designed manholes throughout Akō City. Each manhole design will feature popular long-standing products from Earth Corporation, allowing citizens to feel a closer connection to the company’s heritage. This initiative reflects Earth Corporation’s commitment to blending business success with social responsibility, by enhancing community engagement and city revitalization.
Key Milestones and Historical Timeline
The journey of Earth Corporation began with the establishment of Kimura Pharmaceutical Company by Hidezo Kimura in Osaka in 1892. The company evolved over the years:
- - 1925: Formation of what would later become Earth Corporation.
- - 1929: Launch of the household insecticide brand, “Earth.”
- - 1964: The company rebranded as Earth Corporation, adapting to the growing internal bathing culture by introducing bath additives.
- - 1973: Development of the revolutionary “Gokiburi Hoihoy,” a unique sticky trap for cockroaches.
- - 2016: Construction of a new Mondamin factory in Akō City to increase production capabilities.
- - 2025: Celebrating a centenary with various events to honor its history and community connection.
These key milestones reflect a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, with products designed to enhance everyday living that resonate deeply with consumers.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
As part of the 100th-anniversary celebrations, the second phase of the festivities includes:
- - Designated Manhole Installations: Scheduled for August 26, 2025, featuring designs inspired by iconic products like the “Gokiburi Hoihoy” and “Earth No Matte,” along with local Akō motifs.
- - Digital Stamp Rally: From August 26 to December 28, 2025, participants can engage in a citywide stamp rally using a dedicated app. Collect stamps from each specially designed manhole to receive Earth Corporation product giveaways at specified locations such as the Akō Tourist Association.
Through these engagements, Earth Corporation aims to foster a stronger bond with the community while celebrating a remarkable 100 years of service. This commitment to innovation, health, and environmental consciousness remains at the forefront of the company’s endeavors as it looks toward the future and continues to evolve with the needs of society.
"We promise to continue being a presence that supports life and daily living," CEO Katsuyuki Kawabata concluded, reinforcing the company’s dedication to both its customers and the environment.