Meiji is one of the few confectionery companies in the world that also makes yoghurt, baby formula and pharmaceuticals — a spread that traces back to its roots as a sugar refiner rather than a candy maker.
From sugar refinery to chocolate giant
Meiji was established in 1916 in Japan, initially as a sugar-refining business named Meiji Seito. It moved into confectionery through the 1910s and 20s, and in 1926 launched Meiji Milk Chocolate, a block bar that became the company's flagship product and remains on shelves in largely the same wrapper style today, a full century later. The name "Meiji" refers to the Meiji era (1868-1912) of Japanese modernisation, a period associated with rapid Western-style industrial growth.
The lines that built the brand
- Meiji Milk Chocolate — launched 1926, the company's original and still best-selling chocolate block.
- Kinoko no Yama — mushroom-shaped chocolate-and-biscuit snacks, launched 1975.
- Apollo — cone-shaped strawberry-and-chocolate bites, launched 1969.
- Meiji Choco Baby — small chocolate drops sold since 1970, aimed at children.
More than a candy company
Today Meiji operates under the holding company Meiji Holdings, and is as significant in Japan's dairy and pharmaceutical industries as it is in confectionery — a diversification that dates back to its origins as a sugar and later dairy processor. Its chocolate remains a staple of Japanese imports, sitting alongside other classic chocolate that has built a following well outside its home market.
Frequently asked questions
When was Meiji founded?
Meiji was founded in 1916 in Japan as a sugar-refining business, before expanding into confectionery and launching its first milk chocolate bar in 1926.
What is Meiji best known for?
Meiji is best known for Meiji Milk Chocolate, its long-running block chocolate bar first launched in 1926, along with other long-running lines like Kinoko no Yama, Apollo and Meiji Choco Baby.
Is Meiji only a chocolate company?
No, Meiji is also one of Japan's largest dairy companies, producing milk, yoghurt and pharmaceuticals alongside confectionery, operating today under the holding company Meiji Holdings.