Gerard Bros.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Gerard Bros. Ltd. | |
|---|---|
| Type | Limited company |
| Founded | 1897 |
| Headquarters | Nottingham, England |
| Industry | Soaps |
| Products | Ino toilet soap, Ino flakes |
Gerard Bros. Ltd. was a manufacturer of personal healthcare products. The company was founded in 1897, and Mr Thomas B. Gerard was voted its first chairman. The company established a factory in Wilkinson Street, New Basford, Nottingham. The factory was built on a 14-acre site and pumped water from the River Leen. In 1921 the factory was severely damaged by fire, but the subsequent rebuild afforded the opportunity to expand the factory.[1]
In 1955 the company was acquired by Cussons Sons & Co., chaired by Leslie Cussons makers of the famous brand Cussons Imperial Leather soap. After the acquisition Cussons kept the Gerard Bros. factory in use.
In 1975 Cussons Sons & Co. were themselves acquired by Paterson Zochonis[2] (recently renamed to PZ Cussons). In 2005 PZ Cussons finally closed the old Gerard Bros. factory,[3] and manufacturing was moved to Pathumthani, Thailand.
[edit] Brands
Gerard Bros.'s main brand was called 'Ino'. The brand was produced as a toilet soap with the tagline "The First Aid to Beauty". Washing flakes were also produced with the tagline 'Ino Flakes Wash Everything'. A set of playing cards were manufactured to advertise Ino Flakes.
Gerard Bros. also manufactured a range of soaps inspired by flowers. The range included Lily of the Valley, Rose and Lavender.
