No, Pears is not an Indian company. It is historically a British brand of soap developed in the early 19th century, and is currently owned by Unilever, an Anglo-Dutch multinational consumer goods company. Products marketed and sold under Pears brand are manufactured and distributed by Hindustan Unilever Limited, a subsidiary of Unilever, based in India.
Pears is known for its signature translucent glycerine-based soap, which is gentle on the skin while exhibiting cleansing and moisturising effects. There are multiple variants of Pears soap in the market, such as classic amber, germshield and other varieties suited to various skin types. Apart from bathing soaps, the product portfolio of Pears include body washes, face washes and hand washes.
| Details | Info |
| Founded | 1807 |
| Founder | Andrew Pears |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom |
| CEO | Fernando Fernandez |
| Sector | Personal care |
Company History
Pears was founded in the year 1807 by Andrew Pears in London, United Kingdom, under the ownership of A. & F. Pears. The soap was made with glycerine and natural oil, and it became the first transparent soap to be mass manufactured and marketed in the world. Pears entered India in the year 1902, setting the stage for an association with the country which lasts till date.
In the year 1917, A. & F. Pears was acquired by Lever Brothers, a British company that eventually became Unilever. Pears grew as a premium soap brand under Unilever. Production of Pears soaps continued in Isleworth till 1960s when Unilever shifted production to Port Sunlight in northwest England.
In the year 2003, Unilever shifted the manufacturing of Pears products to India and consolidated the brand under its subsidiary, Hindustan Unilever Limited.
Current Status
Pears is a premium brand in the bath soap segment. It is particularly a strong brand in India, which is its largest market. Apart from India, Pears is also available in countries like Australia, Nigeria and Sri Lanka.
Hindustan Unilever Limited, the Indian subsidiary of Unilever, is responsible for manufacturing, marketing and distribution of Pears, serving both domestic and global markets. India is the production hub of Pears.
Pears has consistently introduced newer formulations and variants like body washes, face washes and hand washes over the years. However, its primary focus remains on natural ingredients, including glycerine, and suitability for all skin types.
Future Outlook
Pears is likely to continue introducing premium variants of soaps and other personal care products, while emphasising on its legacy as a gentle glycerine-based soap. The brand is also expected to focus on sustainable initiatives like regenerative sourcing of natural oil and eco-friendly packaging.