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JGL Celebrates 35 Years of Growth, Innovation and Community

Thirty-five years ago today, on May 14, JGL began its journey driven by bold ideas, big dreams, and the belief that innovation, knowledge, and dedication can improve people’s health and quality of life.

JGL was founded in 1991, when Jadran-Galenski Laboratory emerged from Jadran Pharmacy as Croatia’s first private pharmaceutical joint-stock company. In the same year, its first medicine, Carbo medicinalis, was registered, while one of the first products launched was the now widely recognized Children’s Ointment.

Through continuous investment in technology, knowledge, and people, JGL has grown from a small local laboratory into an international company with a global reach. Today, JGL Group brings together more than 1,450 employees and stands as an innovative leader in the therapeutic areas of dermatology, ophthalmology, and cold and flu treatment. Its portfolio includes 150 brands, 300 products, and 650 variations tailored to specific markets, while JGL products are present in 60 countries worldwide.

The company’s growth is reflected in impressive numbers – from 200 thousand euros in revenue in 1991 to 306 million euros in 2025. Over the past 35 years, more than 28 million working hours have been accumulated, and as many as 742 million product units have been produced, reaching users around the world every day.

Today marks not only the anniversary of the company, but also a celebration of all the people who have built and shaped JGL — yesterday, today, and for the years to come.

To mark the company’s 35th anniversary, a film directed by Robert Knjaz was created, featuring employees sharing stories about JGL’s growth, togetherness, and achievements.