Sanrio is a Japanese company known for creating adorable and widely beloved characters, most notably Hello Kitty, who has become an iconic figure in global pop culture. Founded in 1960 by Shintaro Tsuji, Sanrio specializes in producing cute, charming characters that appear on a vast range of merchandise, including stationery, plush toys, fashion accessories, and even themed cafés and amusement parks. Beyond Hello Kitty, Sanrio has introduced other fan-favorite characters like My Melody, Cinnamoroll, Kuromi, and Pompompurin, each with their own unique personalities and backstories. The franchise thrives on its "small gift, big smile" philosophy, spreading joy through whimsical designs and heartwarming storytelling. Over the years, Sanrio has expanded its reach through collaborations with fashion brands, video games, and anime, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon in both Japan and worldwide.