BIC Marks 50 Years of Shaving Innovation
By Editorial Team
BIC is celebrating 50 years of shaping the global shaving industry, marking a historic journey that began in 1975 with the launch of the world’s first one-piece disposable shaver, the iconic BIC 1. The simple design made shaving easy, safe, and affordable for millions. Today, the BIC 1 remains the company’s most sold razor worldwide, proving its timeless appeal and trusted performance.
This year, BIC celebrates five decades of innovation, engineering excellence, and a commitment to making everyday grooming effortless. The company continues to upgrade blade technology and skin-friendly design, staying true to its mission of improving daily routines across the world.
“At BIC, we are committed to innovating with purpose. We continuously evolve to meet the changing needs of our consumers,” said Gary Horsfield, BIC Blade Excellence Category Leader and Group Supply Chain Officer. He noted that BIC razors combine modern technology with thoughtful design to deliver a smooth and reliable shaving experience.
BIC’s story of precision began in Greece at BIC Violex, the company’s largest shaver plant. Production of the BIC 1 started there in 1974, a year before the official launch. Today, the site exports 99% of its output to major markets including North America, Mexico, and Europe. It produces more than 25 million shavers every week and develops over 40 razor types. The facility also acts as a global innovation hub where every new product is prototyped and refined.
Over the years, BIC expanded its manufacturing footprint to France, Mexico, Brazil, and Kenya. Combined, these facilities produce more than 5 billion blades each year and distribute razors to over 160 countries. With advanced precision engineering and nanotechnology, BIC blades are now up to 2,000 times thinner than human hair. Each blade also undergoes more than 60 quality checks and extreme temperature processing, ranging from 1,100°C to -80°C, to guarantee durability and performance.
This high level of consistency has made BIC a trusted part of grooming routines around the world.
BIC has also grown its razor categories to meet different needs. Its women’s range features two to five blade systems with lubricating strips and moisturizing bars infused with oils and natural butters. The razors include comfort shields to prevent irritation and lightweight, textured handles that offer a firm grip. Bright colors, soft fragrances, and attractive designs turn a daily grooming routine into a refreshing ritual.
For men, BIC offers razors with one to five stainless-steel blades. Depending on the model, they come with fixed or pivoting heads that follow facial contours, precision blades for shaping sideburns and beards, and lubricating strips for comfort. The advanced coatings across the range ensure a smooth and close shave every time.
BIC is also pushing forward on sustainability. “We believe in developing simple, inventive, and reliable products responsibly,” said Karen Schwartz, Vice President BIC Blade Excellence Category. She emphasized that BIC’s philosophy of using only what is needed guides both innovation and sustainability.
The company has increased the use of recycled materials in its products. Models such as the BIC Hybrid Flex 3 and Comfort 3 Refillable feature razor handles made with up to 90% recycled content, while the Twin Lady/Silky Touch uses 87%. The blades themselves are made with 80% recycled steel. BIC has also redesigned its packaging, making 85% of all plastic packaging reusable, recyclable, or compostable. In its factories, 92% of energy now comes from renewable sources, helping significantly reduce emissions.
As BIC marks its 50-year milestone, the brand is also celebrating its commitment to empowering women through a new global platform, “Your Time to Shine.” The campaign highlights self-care, confidence, and the small daily moments that help women feel at their best. It builds on BIC Soleil’s long heritage of skin-friendly design and dependable performance.
In Kenya, BIC remains a household favorite. Earlier this year, the company introduced the BIC 1 Lady, expanding its range for female consumers. Miss Soleil continues to enjoy strong love from customers across East Africa. Among men, the BIC 1 and the Flex series remain top picks for quality and affordability.
BIC’s 50-year journey shows how a simple idea can evolve into a global standard. The brand continues to innovate with purpose, blending technology, design, and sustainability to serve millions every day.
