Corporate History
1929
Hanpei Sawai and Noyo Sawai (pharmacist) established Sawai Pharmacy. Sawai Pharmaceutical’s predecessor, in Asahi-ku, Osaka.
Began round-the-clock operations in order to serve as many patients as possible.
Noyo Sawai was one of only ten female pharmacists in Japan at the time.
After starting Sawai Pharmacy with his wife Noyo, Hanpei went on to become Sawai Pharmaceutical's first President.
1948
Sawai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. incorporated in Asahi-ku, Osaka.
As the head of the Sawai family, Hanpei took an innovative and pioneering approach to developing a variety of over-the-counter drugs for the market.
A selection of products at the time.
1965
Shifted operations from OTC drugs to the manufacture of ethical pharmaceuticals.
Following the introduction of a nationwide universal health care program in 1961, Sawai shifted focus to prescription drugs, thereby contributing to the health of a growing number of patients.
1968
Second Osaka Factory (now Osaka Factory) completed.
1974
Former Head Office building completed and Head Office relocated.
1978
Jiro Sawai appointed President.
1988
Jiro Sawai appointed Chairman and Hiroyuki Sawai appointed President.
1995
Sawai shares listed on the OTC stock market.
1997
Began newspaper advertising.
Sawai was the first in the industry to advertise in newspapers in an effort to raise awareness about generic drugs, which were relatively unknown in Japan at the time.
2003
Listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
2004
Started nationwide TV advertising.
Sawai was the first in the industry to air TV commercials in an effort to gain recognition and further promote awareness about generic drugs in Japan.
2008
Hiroyuki Sawai appointed Chairman and Mitsuo Sawai appointed President.
2017
Acquired Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC and entered the U.S. market in earnest.
2019
Sawai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. celebrates 90th year in business.
2021
Transitioned to a holding company structure and Sawai Group Holdings Co., Ltd. established. Sawai became one of the group companies.