Our Story

OUR COMPANY

Mentholatum was founded in 1889 in Wichita, Kansas. Starting out as small purveyor of soaps and toiletries, Mentholatum grew into a global health and wellness company with a reputation for quality and value. In 1988, Rohto Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd. acquired The Mentholatum Company.

Rohto Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd was founded in 1899 in Osaka, Japan, as a small family drugstore. The company was a pioneer in over-the-counter medicines and consumer healthcare products. Today, it is now the 2nd largest consumer health company in Japan, establishing its position as a world leader in manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, skin care and health care products. We are distributing in more than 110 countries globally.

Driven by scientific research, technology, and keeping a pulse on consumers’ aspirations, the global Rohto Mentholatum teams are dedicated to providing effective solutions for our consumers’ personal needs through developing high quality, innovative new products.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Now, Rohto is tackling new challenges under the slogan, “Never Say Never”. The literal meaning is “nothing is impossible”, but it is never intended to mean “work hard with a gutsy attitude”. This declaration is about finding the resolve to face up to difficulties for the future happiness of others.

Our challenge is to aim for “healthy life”. Everybody wishes for “good health” and it is a source of happiness. Rohto defines “health” as being more that the avoidance of illness. Being healthy oneself leads to one’s family being healthy, and by extension, this radiance of health outspreads into society at large. We consider “health” as not just being about mental and physical aspects, but also contributing to society.

Our new challenge to “support society, and maintain global health for the future” has just begun. We would like to thank you most sincerely for your continued support.