Our History

For nearly 70 years, Elanco has evolved, adapted and grown. But the commitment to innovation has never wavered.

Elanco animal health headquaters

A Legacy of Innovation

For nearly 70 years, we've focused on delivering innovative animal health solutions that solve our customers’ greatest challenges.

Since 1954, Elanco has committed to empowering veterinarians, farmers, and all those concerned with animal health with the tools they need to help animals live healthy lives.

Elanco only exists today because of the agility and decisiveness of two executives, who, upon hatching a new idea on a plane, immediately rerouted their business trip to act on the opportunity.

woman walking and stroking dog in a barn with cows next to them in pens

In 1953, Lilly launched the first antibiotic for exclusive veterinary use. Shortly after, in 1954, the company formally organized its plant and animal science activities into the Agricultural and Industrial Sales Division, led by George Varnes. The Elanco brand, short for Eli Lilly and Company, came to be in 1960, following the reorganization of Eli Lilly and Company's Agricultural and Industrial Sales Division. 

Global Expansion and Innovation

Being the new company in the industry brought challenges, including some who questioned whether we had any business in animal agriculture. Perseverance, tenacity, and a commitment to innovation led Elanco to succeed, delivering value and solutions for our customers.

With a solid foundation in place, the 1960s through 1980s marked decades of expansion and innovation. Elanco developed regional offices in the U.S., entered global markets, and grew our product portfolio to focus on both farm animal and pet health. Fast forward to today, with operations in 90 counties around the world and 17 dedicated research and development and manufacturing sites delivering on Elanco’s mission.

You Might Be Interested in...

Get to know Elanco and our perspective on animal health by exploring more articles below.

우리의 이야기

글로벌 동물 건강 리더가 되기 위한 60년 간의 혁신 및 육성 관계를 살펴보세요.

two men stood in front of a pen of cows holding something and both inspecting it

Research & Development

Elanco's research and development process applies expertise to create solutions to the most significant animal health challenges.

two males knelt down making something out of bamboo

Our Vision

Learn more about our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life that we share with our customers.


About Elanco

About Elanco

엘랑코가 동물의 건강을 지키고 증진하는 혁신적인 해결책을 가진 일류 동물약품 기업인 이유를 알아보세요.

엘랑코 더 알아보기

Connect with Elanco

나라 선택

Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. © 2021 Elanco.
EM-GLB-CA-20-0045