In the quiet town of Odate, Japan, the remarkable tale of Hysia unfolds—a trailblazer in pest management and hygiene solutions. This journey traces back to 1950 when Keiko Kanazawa, a resilient young woman, entered the Kanazawa family through marriage, joining a candy wholesale business in northern Japan.

Keiko’s life as a housewife took an unexpected turn when she assumed responsibility for the candy storage building’s cleanliness. Blamed for rodent infestations, she took matters into her own hands, founding Dynamic Sanito in 1969.

The warehouse’s rodent problem fueled Keiko’s determination. Lacking resources, she initially used common rodenticides, realizing their limitations. Undeterred, she developed “Ratmit,” a revolutionary rodenticide based on keen observations of rodent behavior. Beyond her own challenges, Keiko shared her solutions with local businesses, birthing a commercial pest management enterprise.

Breaking Boundaries: Keiko’s Commercial Success

In a society where women rarely started businesses, Keiko faced skepticism. Yet, her dedication and effective methods led to the transformation of Dynamic Sanito into a commercial success.

A pivotal moment came when Keiko received an inquiry from Haneda International Airport, showcasing the effectiveness of her methods. This episode led to a Tokyo branch and an expansion to various pest services. Keiko’s business flourished, with six branches, 50 employees, and USD$5 million in sales.

Keiko’s contributions extended beyond her company. Actively participating in industry associations, she elevated the perception of pest control. Sons Yoshihiro and Akira continued her legacy, expanding into comprehensive hygiene solutions. Taro, Yoshihiro’s son, expanded the business into Singapore and Taiwan.

Keiko’s guiding principles, embedded in the company’s philosophy, include pride in work, the power of passion, recognising abilities, persistence, and a commitment to long-term solutions.

Keiko Kanazawa’s legacy lives on in Hysia, a company driven by innovation and dedication. Today, providing hygiene solutions across Asia, Hysia stands as a testament to its founder’s indomitable spirit, defying conventions and leaving an enduring mark on the pest management industry.

As Hysia continues to flourish, it pays homage to Keiko’s vision. The principles she instilled remain the bedrock of the company’s ethos. Hysia’s dedication to excellence and innovation echoes Keiko’s pioneering spirit, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions over short-term gains.

A Transformative Legacy: Lessons from Keiko’s Journey

In Keiko’s footsteps, Hysia’s leadership, now in the hands of her grandson, Taro Kanazawa, continues to expand and adapt. What started as a humble venture in Odate has evolved into a pan-Asian enterprise. As such, Hysia now provides not just pest management solutions but also comprehensive hygiene services.

Keiko’s journey teaches us that passion, determination, and a commitment to excellence can overcome societal barriers. Hysia’s success is not just a story of a company; it’s a testament to the transformative power of one woman’s vision and resilience. As Hysia thrives, it embodies the spirit of innovation and care for the environment, a legacy forged in pursuing a healthier world.