- a global enterprise the Danish way
In 1991, Yamanouchi chose to consolidate their Nordic headquarters in Copenhagen, the Danish capital. In line with its corporate strategy. Yamanouchi maintains national sales offices in most countries around the world, whereas the administrative functions, R & D, production and of course distribution have been centralised in regional headquarters.
One of the main reasons why Denmark was chosen as Nordic headquarters was that Denmark - at the time - was the only Scandinavian representative in the European Union. The choice of Copenhagen as a regional headquarters was therefore the best opportunity. Since Sweden and Finland joined the EU, Denmark is no longer the only Nordic country in the Union, but according to Mr. Stead Ellis, Managing Director of Yamanouchi’s Nordic operations, Denmark is still the best country to be in.
Mr. Ellis explains: "For an expatriate like me, Denmark is a good place to live. One thing is the English language fluency, another the fact that the Danes are very friendly to foreigners. I have never felt like a stranger here. And the capital city, Copenhagen, a lively city, is becoming increasingly cosmopolitan and commercially invigorating.
Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical
With annual sales exceeding USD 3.5 billion Yamanouchi Pharmaceuticals is a leader in Japan’s pharmaceutical industry. The company has established itself as a comprehensive enterprise capable of meeting a wide range of needs: from the treatment of disease to the maintenance and improvement of health. Yamanouchi has built a solid reputation as a research-oriented company. Furthermore, the company provides a consumer health care product range in the USA through the Shaklee Corporation.
A unique Danish research environment
When selecting Copenhagen as the Nordic headquarters Yamanouchi could also profit from the fact that Denmark has evolved as a centre for pharmaceutical research facilities. Through the location in this region, Yamanouchi has access to the very best research environment in the universities and the teaching hospitals.
…and a better business climate
Denmark is one of the world’s cleanest and most organised countries with virtually no pollution, crime or poverty. In addition, Denmark has one of the world’s most business-friendly immigration laws, and the Danes welcome foreign enterprises, products and ideas. On top of it all, Denmark is one of the most corruption-free countries in the world according to the organisation Transparency International in Berlin.
The small size of Denmark has made international involvement natural, and the high proportion of foreign trade has further contributed to the existence of a truly international business climate.
