Burt's Bees
The Humble Beginnings
In the 1970s, Burt Shavitz, a photographer for Time and Life magazines in New York, abandoned his hectic city life for a simpler existence in rural Maine. He started beekeeping and selling honey from his small farm until fate introduced him to Roxanne Quimby, a like-minded artist who shared his love for nature.
Birth of a Brand from Beeswax
In 1984, the duo began making beeswax candles sold at local fairs. Their small business exploded, earning over $20,000 in the first year! They soon expanded into skincare, creating their iconic Beeswax Lip Balm that remains a bestseller today.
Clashing Visions and Parting Ways
As the business flourished, their relationship soured. Burt preferred a simple life, while Roxanne wanted aggressive expansion. By 1994, they separated, with Burt receiving a settlement and land.
Rapid Growth and Acquisition
Under Roxanne's leadership, the company relocated to North Carolina and expanded its product lines rapidly. In 2007, Clorox acquired Burt's Bees for a staggering $925 million!
Commitment to Sustainability
Even after selling, Roxanne continued environmental work, donating 88,000 acres of forest land to conservation. Burt's Bees maintains its natural ethos, becoming a certified B Corporation in 2012.
Signature Products
- Beeswax Lip Balm
- Honey-based skincare
- Natural soaps and cosmetics
- Baby and men's care lines
- Burts Bees Today
- Now offering 150+ products in 40 countries, Burt's Bees remains committed to using 95% natural ingredients.
Find Burts Bees products at all Rimping branches!
