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Suntory has announced plans to acquire Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare from Daiichi Sankyo in a transaction valued at approximately ¥246.5 billion ($1.6 billion), marking a significant expansion into the fast-growing self-care and health products segment.

The acquisition reflects Suntory’s ambition to broaden its footprint beyond traditional food and beverage categories into health-related products, as consumer demand for preventative healthcare and functional products continues to rise.

Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare offers a portfolio of over-the-counter (OTC) brands, including Lulu, Loxonin, Minon and Clean Dental, alongside capabilities in functional skincare, oral care and food products. The company entered the sports nutrition market in 2024 with its acquisition of DNS.

The transaction will be executed in three stages, with Suntory ultimately acquiring 100% ownership:

• June 2026: Initial 30% stake

• June 2027: Increase to 70%, making the business a consolidated subsidiary

• June 2029: Full ownership at 100%

The phased structure allows for regulatory approvals and integration planning, with the total valuation subject to customary adjustments.

The deal highlights a broader convergence between food, beverage and healthcare sectors, as major players seek to capitalise on rising consumer interest in holistic wellbeing.

By combining beverage innovation with pharmaceutical-grade expertise, Suntory is positioning itself to compete more aggressively in adjacent categories, including functional foods, supplements and OTC health solutions.

For Daiichi Sankyo, the divestment enables greater focus on its core pharmaceutical business, while ensuring its consumer healthcare arm benefits from Suntory’s scale and distribution capabilities.