Company History

Company history photographs and adverts

1941	Deb Silkware Protection Ltd is established by A.B. Williamson to sell ‘Deb’ the world’s first ever rinse-aid, a formulation he invented to help preserve the life of ladies' silk stockings. The name ‘Deb’ originates from the word ‘Debutante’, the traditional name given to girls making their first appearance in society.
1946	The company’s name changes to Deb Chemical Proprietaries Ltd.
1947	Deb invents Swarfega Antiseptic Hand Cleaner; the famous green gel was originally sold through motor cycle dealers, chemists and barbers shops.
1965	Deb introduces the world’s first pump-based dispensers. Originally, these were metal bulkfill dispensers. Later designs utilised plastic moulded components.
1969	Deb Canada is established, Deb’s first wholly-owned company outside the UK.
1983	The company's name changes to Deb Ltd.
1989	Deb acquires SBS Inc, an American skin care company.
1994	Deb invents the first hygienically sealed collapsible cartridge system capable of dispensing soaps, creams and granulated heavy duty hand cleaners.
1997	Deb acquires Arma, a French skin care company.
1999	Deb launches the world’s first generic foaming soap system.
2003	Deb invents the world’s first foaming alcohol hand sanitiser.
2005	The Deb Group is created, bringing 21 companies together under one international banner, aspiring to be the world’s leading away from home skin care system company.
2009	Deb opens its new global headquarters in Denby, UK.
2010	Deb Group is acquired on Saturday, 27th February by Charterhouse Capital Partners.
2011	Deb celebrate their 70th Anniversary with the launch of the GLOBAL RANGE. DebMed introduces Revolutionary New System to Address Patient Safety in Hospitals.