Gillette

Overview

Gillette is an American brand of safety razors and personal care products focused on shaving supplies.¹² It holds a leading position in the men's grooming market through innovations in razor technology and blade systems, with operations integrated into Procter & Gamble's beauty and household care divisions since 2005.¹²

History

The Gillette Company was founded by King C. Gillette in 1901 as a safety razor manufacturer, with production starting in 1903 and rapid sales growth by 1904.¹³ It expanded internationally in the early 1900s, diversified into products like deodorants and pens mid-century, and introduced key razor innovations such as the Mach3 in 1998.¹³⁴ The company was acquired by Procter & Gamble in 2005, with its assets incorporated into P&G divisions by 2007.¹²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Gillette maintains manufacturing facilities including the Gillette South Boston Manufacturing Center, known as Gillette World Shaving Headquarters, under Procter & Gamble ownership.² Historical plants were established in Paris (1905), Canada (1906), and Slough, UK (post-WWI).¹ Production involves both in-house operations and global supply chains for razors and blades.¹²

Notable Products

• Mach3 - First three-blade razor introduced in 1998 for closer shave.
• Fusion ProGlide - Powered five-blade system with flexball technology.
• Sensor - Twin blades on springs launched in 1990 for contour adaptation.
• ATRA - Twin-blade pivoting head introduced in 1977.
• Adjustable Razor - First adjustable model in 1957 with multiple beard settings.
• Blue Blade - First new blade type since 1901, introduced in 1932.

Reputation

Gillette is recognized by grooming enthusiasts for pioneering safety razors and multi-blade innovations that set industry standards for closeness and comfort.¹⁴ Professionals note its market dominance via the razor-and-blade model, though it faces criticism for high replacement blade costs and competition from subscription services like Dollar Shave Club.¹ Balanced views highlight reliable performance alongside concerns over plastic waste from disposables.