Colgate-Palmolive was a small soap and candle business founded by William Colgate in 1806 and within 200 years has grown into a global company serving billions of people around the world.
Today, with sales exceeding $17 billion, Colgate-Palmolive has four core businesses. Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Food. Its products are sold in 196 countries around the world.
Founding of Colgate
Founded by William Colgate in New York in 1806, the company was renamed Colgate Palmolive in 1953 as a result of the merger of Colgate with Palmolive.
The history of Colgate toothpaste began in 1873, 67 years after the company was founded. The company introduced an aromatic toothpaste sold in jars. In 1896, the company sold Colgate toothpaste in tube packaging. In 1908, they started the mass sale of toothpaste in tubes. In 1911, Colgate distributed free toothbrushes and toothpaste, promoting oral health education and hygienic brushing techniques for children. In 1920, the product went into operation in Europe, Asia, Latin America and Africa.
From 1953 Colgate Palmolive became the official name of the company. In 1976 Colgate Palmolive took over Hill's Pet Nutrition, a pet food company. In 1983, the company launched the Colgate Plus toothbrush, in 1985 - Protex soap. In 1991 Colgate Palmolive acquired America's leading wood cleaner, Murphy Oil Soap, and in 1992 the Mennen Company.
Who is the founder William Colgate?
He was born on January 25, 1783 in England. In his youth he was a sympathizer of the American Revolutionary War and the French Revolution. He emigrated to America in March 1798. He settled in New York in 1804. There he got a job as an apprentice in a soap factory. He closely followed the soap production methods applied by his employer and noticed the mistakes made. In 1806 he established a starch, soap and candle workshop on Dutch Street in Manhattan. He became known as a devout Christian. He used some of his earnings for religious charity.