Core Insights - The article highlights Glico's commitment to health and innovation, showcasing its evolution from a traditional food company to a global leader in health-oriented products [1][6][27] Group 1: Glico's Historical Context and Brand Philosophy - Glico was founded in 1922 with a mission to enhance the health of the nation through food, starting with the idea of using candy as a preventive health measure [4][27] - The company has maintained a focus on "deliciousness and health," evolving its product offerings to include functional foods that address modern health concerns [4][12] Group 2: Glico's Participation in the Osaka Expo - Glico is a key sponsor of the Osaka Expo, using the event to showcase its health innovations and global brand values [6][14] - At the expo, Glico introduced its "Rice Nutrition Candy," which reflects both traditional Asian dietary roots and modern nutritional concepts [6][8] Group 3: Research and Development Strategies - Glico's R&D focuses on five strategic areas: optimizing nutrition, supporting growth, enhancing athletic performance, improving brain function, and promoting healthy aging [15][17] - The company emphasizes continuous product innovation, such as reducing sugar and fat while adding functional nutrients to its classic products [17][22] Group 4: Product Innovations and Market Trends - Glico's "Almond Effect" series has seen significant growth, achieving approximately 800% increase in sales since its launch in 2014, indicating a successful adaptation to the plant-based beverage trend [29][37] - The company has successfully transformed its products from functional items to emotional connections in consumers' daily diets, enhancing market penetration [30][37] Group 5: Manufacturing and Quality Control - Glico employs a rigorous "artisan system" to ensure high-quality production, emphasizing the importance of precise adjustments based on environmental conditions during manufacturing [24][26] - The integration of automated systems with skilled craftsmanship allows Glico to maintain consistent product quality across its extensive product range [24][26]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights how Glico, a century-old Japanese food company, is leveraging the Osaka Expo 2025 to showcase its commitment to health and innovation in food products, emphasizing its long-term growth strategy centered around health and wellness [3][9][30]. Group 1: Company History and Philosophy - Glico was founded in 1922 with the mission of enhancing the health of the nation through food, a philosophy that has evolved into a global health strategy encompassing gut health, anti-aging, and functional nutrition [5][30]. - The company has consistently explored the balance between "deliciousness and health," pushing these concepts and products onto the global stage [5][7]. Group 2: Innovation and Product Development - Glico's participation in the Osaka Expo serves as a platform to present its innovative products, such as rice-based nutritional candies, which reflect modern nutritional concepts while honoring traditional Asian dietary culture [9][11]. - The company has developed a patented anti-aging technology based on the Albizia julibrissin plant, demonstrating its commitment to advancing health technology [11][14]. Group 3: Research and Development Strategy - Glico's R&D focuses on five strategic areas: optimizing nutrition for growth, supporting development, enhancing athletic performance, improving brain function, and promoting healthy aging, targeting diverse health needs across different demographics [18][19]. - The company continuously upgrades its classic products, such as Bisco cookies, by reducing sugar and fat while adding functional nutrients, aligning with its health-oriented brand philosophy [19][22]. Group 4: Market Expansion and Consumer Engagement - The "Almond Effect" series has seen significant growth, achieving approximately 800% increase in sales since its launch in 2014, indicating Glico's successful penetration into the plant-based beverage market [36][39]. - Glico's approach to product development emphasizes creating a sustainable growth loop, connecting research, production, and market feedback to ensure the health value of its products [28][30].