Burt's Bees

Burt's Bees is an American personal care company that has become synonymous with natural, environmentally friendly products. Founded in 1984 in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, by Burt Shavitz and Roxanne Quimby, the company started small, with Quimby making candles from Shavitz's leftover beeswax. This humble beginning took place in a rented, abandoned one-room schoolhouse for just $150 a year. The duo initially sold honey, but as the company grew, they expanded their product line to include furniture polish and edible spreads before focusing more on personal care items.

The brand's philosophy is deeply rooted in sustainability and respect for nature, which is reflected in their product range that includes items for personal care, health, beauty, and personal hygiene. Burt's Bees describes itself as an ""Earth-friendly, Natural Personal Care Company,"" and this ethos is evident in their use of natural ingredients and environmentally conscious packaging. The company's commitment to environmental stewardship goes beyond its products, as it also engages in various sustainability initiatives.

In the late 1980s, Burt's Bees increased production after receiving a large order from a New York City boutique. This growth necessitated a move to a larger manufacturing space—an abandoned bowling alley—and the hiring of additional staff. It was during this period that Quimby discovered a 19th-century book on beekeeping, which included recipes for personal care products. This discovery marked the company's foray into the personal care industry.

The 1990s saw Burt's Bees incorporate and diversify its product offerings, with the introduction of their now-iconic lip balm. The company's focus shifted exclusively to personal care products, and in 1995, they moved their operations to a larger facility in Creedmoor, North Carolina. Despite the expansion and introduction of automated machinery, Burt's Bees maintained its ""homemade"" appeal, which has been a key factor in its success.

Burt's Bees continued to grow and, in 2007, was acquired by Clorox. However, the acquisition did not change the company's dedication to natural products and eco-friendly practices. Today, Burt's Bees is a global brand, with its products distributed in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and New Zealand.

The company's journey from a backyard business to a leading name in the sustainable personal care industry is a testament to its commitment to quality, natural ingredients, and environmental responsibility. Burt's Bees remains a pioneer in the industry, inspiring other companies to follow in its footsteps towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to business."