Ezaki Glico (TOKYO:2206) launched its global web site for Pocky, one of Glico's top-selling products. Pocky was first marketed in 1966 in Japan and soon became one of the most popular biscuit-type-confectionery with its unique shape and convenience of portability.

Share happiness with Glico Pocky (Photo: Business Wire)

Share happiness with Glico Pocky (Photo: Business Wire)

Pocky is currently available in more than 30 countries including the USA, Canada, China, Thailand and Singapore. In the European market, Pocky is sold under the brand, MIKADO. In 2012, Pocky has expanded into Vietnam and Indonesia and will be hitting the markets in Korea as of June, 2013.

Approximately 500 million boxes of Pocky is sold around the world every year which is equivalent to about USD $300 million. Glico aims to expand its sales to USD $1 billion by the year 2020.

"The purpose of this Pocky web site is to expand recognition of Pocky among global consumers," said Mr. Tsuyoshi Matsuki, Global Brand Manager of Pocky "I hope consumers will understand the concept and philosophy of Pocky through this web site."

Pocky global web site: http://pocky.glico.com/

About Pocky

Pocky - also known as MIKADO in Europe - was developed when the idea was suggested of coating the already popular Pretz pretzel-like stick snack treat with chocolate. At first, the sticks were manually dipped leaving an uncoated portion at one end so that they could be held without having to worry about the fingertips becoming soiled. As demand increased, however, manual processing could no longer keep up. As a result, the innovation and creativity of engineers was fired up to develop a "Glico-Original" manufacturing plant.

About Ezaki Glico

Ever since the launch in 1922 of the nutritious, fortified Glico caramel in its distinctive red box, the business activities of Ezaki Glico Co., Ltd. adhered to the corporate philosophy of "Enhancing Public Health Through Food." Upon the 70th anniversary of the Glico Group in 1992, this same spirit and dedication was incorporated into the revised corporate philosophy of "A Wholesome Life in the Best of Taste."

Glico caramel - the company's first product - incorporates the innovative creativeness of Mr. Ri-ichi Ezaki, the company's founder. Ever since the beginning, the entire staff has likewise been heartily dedicated to further enhancing people's health and quality of life. This has led to the expansion of business lines beyond confectionery to include ice cream products, processed foods, desserts, milk products, baby formula, food ingredients, and raw materials for cosmetic and health products.

Ezaki Glico
Public Relations
Shingo Sato satou-shingo@glico.co.jp
Hiroyuki Okamoto okamoto-hiroyuki@glico.co.jp