Smith & Nephew Ltd

Sectors:

  • Other goods production Healthcare products manufacture inc dressings, hygiene products, sutures, etc
  • Precision instruments production Medical equipment production inc orthopaedic, surgical, testing, etc, products
  • Chemical production Perfumes, cosmetics & toilet goods production
  • Chemical production Pharmaceutical production & research
  • Distribution - retailing Pharmaceutical, cosmetic & toilet goods & medical equipment retailing

Notes:

Traces origins to 1856 when Thomas J Smith opened a pharmaceutical chemist's shop in Hull [chemist business sold 1935]. 1896 known as T J Smith & Nephew. Incorporated 1907. 1912 acquired SASHENA Ltd, later known as Lilia Ltd, manufacturers of sanitary towels. 1921 opened first overseas subsidiary, in Canada. From 1928 developed Elastoplast and other wound care materials.1937 floated as Smith & Nephew Associated Companies Ltd. 1951 important Nivea brand acquired. 1953 acquired Glen Mills, Colne, and in 1956 established Smith & Nephew Pharmaceuticals Ltd. 1958 acquired Southalls (Birmingham) Ltd, healthcare products, including sanitary towel, manufacturers. 1968 hostile bid from Unilever. 1980s well established in orthopaedic sector through acquisition. Expanded internationally from 1970s into a world leading healthcare business. Continues in 2023 [2023]

Groups: