A big part of what makes working at RB so enjoyable is the brands you get to work on. During the time I have spent here, I have learnt a few things about them that I would like to share with you. Who knows, they might come up in a pub quiz one day! 
HARPIC
It all began in 1920 after the First World War, when Harry Pickup established a small business in London producing a drain cleaner powder. This powder was surplus explosive/ammunition chemicals no longer needed after the war, which, when refined, had a devastating effect on germs and dissolving limescale. And so the Harpic brand was born, its name derived from the first 3 letters of Harry Pickup’s – Har Pic.
GAVISCON
Gaviscon was an accidental discovery by a Swedish doctor researching X-ray contrast media who came across a formulation which formed a viscous raft over the gastric contents of the stomach which was realized to be able to tackle the problem of heartburn and indigestion. First launched in 1965, Gaviscon has since became a major Powerbrand with wide distribution worldwide.
AIR WICK
The name Air Wick derives from the appearance of its first packaging – a glass bottle containing scented liquid dispensed through a wick. Simple!
CALGON
Another interesting one. The name derives from its ability to reduce the harmful effects of calcium deposits in water pipes and machinery. In other words, calcium gone! It was first introduced in 1956 to prevent limescale damage to washing machines and their heating elements. It now sells worldwide in a number of different formats.
DETTOL
Dettol was developed in Hull at Reckitt’s laboratories under the guidance of bacteriologist Dr William Colebrook Reynolds. Dettol was introduced during a very important period in history, in the years after the First World War, where there was much concern about the high rates of illness and death from childbirth fever. The main reasons behind its success were that Dettol was the first disinfectant which was an efficient germ killer, combined with its non-poisonous qualities.
These brands have come a long way from where they started and there is still a lot more we can do! You can be part of it. Apply today for a chance to be part of the Powerbrands team. There’s many more to share, but some of us need to get back to work :).
Thank you to Gordon & Steve from RB’s Heritage Centre for the documentation of all these great stories.
