Aeon is reportedly considering the integration of Tsuruha Holdings and Welcia Holdings, potentially giving rise to a 2 trillion yen-scale drugstore powerhouse. As Aeon serves as the parent company of Welcia and is in the final stages of negotiations for acquiring shares from the investment fund holding over 10% of Tsuruha HD stocks.
Tsuruha HD is contemplating going private, aiming to sidestep shareholder pressures and focus on growth strategies. The anticipated acquisition for going private is estimated to be around 600 billion yen, with several private equity funds expressing interest.
Playing a crucial role in the restructuring of the drugstore industry, Aeon holds a 13.35% stake in Tsuruha HD. In the industry, the merger of Matsumotokiyoshi Holdings and Cocokara Fine has secured its position as the third-largest, and if the integration of Tsuruha and Welcia materializes, it could become a formidable competitor.
Aeon, recognized as a retail industry giant, not only owns Welcia HD as a subsidiary but also has investments in numerous other drugstore chains. While the integration and restructuring of Aeon-affiliated drugstores are considered challenging, the industry is closely watching Aeon’s moves amidst these ongoing transformations.
Source: Nikkei Feb 24, 2024
Related Articles
A Fresh Lemon Floats Up! — Nationwide Launch of “Mirai no Lemon Sour”
Asahi Breweries, Ltd. (Head Office: Tokyo, President: Kazuo Matsuyama) will release its innovative RTD※1 product, “Mirai no Lemon Sour,” nationwide in limited quantities starting September 24, 2025. This marks the first time it will be available across all of Japan,...
Starbucks Launches Protein-Infused Beverages in North America — Riding the Wave of Health and Wellness Demand
Starbucks began selling protein-infused beverages in the United States and Canada on September 29, 2025. The launch reflects the rising demand for health-conscious and wellness-focused products, adding high-protein options to its menu.-Product Features *The new line...
Meiji Unveils New Chocolate Innovation: ‘Nama no Toki Shittori Milk’ Offers Fresh Soft Texture with Shelf-Stable Convenience.
Japanese confectionery giant Meiji has launched a breakthrough product after five years of development: “Nama no Toki Shittori Milk.” Using a patented process called the “Nama-Neri Method,” the product achieves the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture of fresh nama...