The Pet Care Science Dept. introduced the pet care brand "Hartz" into the Japanese market in March 2008. The brand is owned by The Hartz Mountain Corporation (U.S.), a Sumitomo Corporation subsidiary. Sales of dog toys (Hartz® Dental toy) and dog accessories (Hartz® Walker) have been launched at specialty shops and through mail-order channels throughout Japan. Various advertising and promotional activities have been implemented targeting the higher-end brand market and marketing these established-brand products that are not only safe and reliable, but functional and fashionable, too.

Japan-based "Hartz" has been developing fashionable dog accessories and toys for tiny dogs with the input of Japanese designers, according to preferences of Japanese pet owners and how they care for their pets. In Japan, where many pet owners spend abundant time and money on their pets, our products have gained a solid reputation for their quality and taste. This autumn, we are releasing a series of new products originally developed in Japan--"Hartz® Aroma Foam Conditioning Shampoo" and "Hartz® Forest Air Air Freshener," a deodorant sprayer, along with additional dental toys that have proved good sellers.

We have attracted much attention in the Japanese pet care accessory industry as sort of a "hero" in the ever-shifting market. We will take this opportunity to expand our business to Taiwan, South Korea, China and France.