William Procter (industrialist)
English-born candlemaker who co-founded Procter & Gamble.
- field
- Industrialist, candlemaker
- nationality
- English-born American
- known_for
- Co-founding Procter & Gamble
Lore & Background
After his store was robbed and he became mired in debt, he was influenced by William Hooper to emigrate to America. Planning only to stay briefly, Procter decided to remain in Cincinnati for the rest of his life. Both needed pig fat, and Norris's proposal allowed them to procure large quantities from suppliers at a lower cost. The company began to manufacture Ivory soap, and profits grew to enormous proportions. His son William Alexander Procter and grandson William Cooper Procter later served as company presidents. Procter is buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, as is his business partner, James Gamble.
Reader's Guide
William Procter's significance lies in his co-founding of Procter & Gamble, a company that became a major industrial force through the production of Ivory soap. His partnership with James Gamble, suggested by his father-in-law, was driven by a practical need to lower costs for pig fat, a key raw material. The company's enormous growth established a lasting legacy in consumer goods. Procter's personal journey—from a debt-ridden London clothier to a successful American industrialist—reflects the immigrant experience of the 19th century. His descendants continued to lead the company, ensuring its long-term influence. Procter's burial alongside Gamble in Spring Grove Cemetery symbolizes their enduring partnership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is William Procter (industrialist)?
William Procter was an English-born American candlemaker and industrialist, best remembered as the co-founder of the consumer-goods giant Procter & Gamble.
Why is William Procter important in business history?
As a co-founder of Procter & Gamble, he helped transform a small candle and soap operation into one of the most enduring and globally recognized consumer-goods companies ever built.
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