Our History

Established in 1841, AS Watson has grown from just one small dispensary into the world’s largest international health & beauty retailer, operating over 16,900 stores in 30 markets. AS Watson Group is one of the longest-standing companies in Hong Kong, and possibly even the world.

Learn more about our Key Milestones

Our History Video

1841 – A Humble Beginning

In the early 1800s, Hong Kong is a small fishing village, Hong Kong Dispensary is formed in 1841 as the first drugstore in Hong Kong to offer western medicines to customers.

1970s – Asia Rising

Our entrepreneurial spirit motivates us to continue expanding the business. From 1987, we start our expansion journey overseas to all cross Asia, helping people Look Good, Feel Great.

2000s – Expansion into Europe

AS Watson enters the European market in year 2000 with our first acquisition of Savers health & beauty retail chain in the UK, followed by a number of acquisitions across Europe, bringing Kruidvat, Superdrug, Trekpleister, Drogas, Rossmann, ICI PARIS XL, Marionnaud and The Perfume Shop into our family.

2010s – Building Customer Connectivity

We stay leading since then and never want to stand still, the Group embarked on our journey of digital transformation since 2012 to stay relevant to customers, providing seamless offline plus online integrated experience 24/7, we call it O+O.

The Future – Our Commitment Continues

AS Watson Group is now one of the longest standing retailers in Hong Kong and in the world. Much has changed over the years, for us and our customers. But one thing hasn’t changed: our purpose to put a smile on our customers’ faces remains.

 

AS Watson Group History Book - 180 Years of LOVE