Who Owns Method Soap? Uncovering the Brand’s Ownership and History

AvatarByBetty Gordon General Soap Item Queries

When it comes to personal care products that combine effectiveness with eco-consciousness, Method Soap has long stood out as a beloved brand. Known for its vibrant packaging, pleasant scents, and commitment to sustainability, Method has captured the attention of consumers seeking both style and substance in their everyday essentials. But behind this popular brand lies a story of ownership and business strategy that many may not be familiar with.

Understanding who owns Method Soap opens the door to a deeper appreciation of the brand’s values, growth trajectory, and place within the larger beauty and cleaning industry. Ownership often influences everything from product development to marketing approaches, making it an intriguing aspect to explore for fans and industry watchers alike. As we delve into the background and current status of Method’s ownership, readers will gain insight into how this brand has maintained its unique identity while navigating a competitive market.

In the sections that follow, we will explore the key players behind Method Soap, the evolution of its ownership, and what this means for the brand’s future. Whether you’re a devoted user or simply curious about the business side of your favorite soap, this overview will provide a clear and engaging perspective on who truly owns Method Soap today.

Ownership and Corporate Structure

Method Soap was originally founded in 2000 by Eric Ryan and Adam Lowry, who aimed to create environmentally friendly and design-forward cleaning products. The brand quickly gained popularity for its innovative packaging and commitment to sustainability. However, Method is no longer an independent company.

In 2017, Method was acquired by Ecover, a Belgian company specializing in ecological cleaning products. This acquisition combined two leading brands in the green cleaning market, strengthening their global footprint and innovation capabilities. Subsequently, in 2018, Ecover and Method were both acquired by SC Johnson, a family-owned American company known for its extensive portfolio of household cleaning and consumer products.

SC Johnson’s acquisition positioned Method as part of a larger conglomerate with significant resources for research, development, and distribution. The move also underscored SC Johnson’s commitment to sustainability, as Method’s brand ethos aligns well with their corporate social responsibility goals.

Key Stakeholders and Influence

The ownership under SC Johnson means that strategic decisions about Method are influenced by the broader goals and policies of the parent company. Key stakeholders include:

  • SC Johnson Family Ownership: The company remains privately held by the Johnson family, providing long-term stability and a focus on sustainable growth rather than short-term profits.
  • Executive Leadership: SC Johnson’s executive team oversees operational and strategic alignment of Method within the overall brand portfolio.
  • Sustainability Advocates: Method’s original founders and sustainability teams continue to influence product development to maintain the brand’s eco-friendly integrity.
  • Consumers and Retail Partners: As a consumer-facing brand, feedback from retail partners and customers also shapes product offerings and marketing strategies.

Impact of Ownership on Brand Direction

Being part of SC Johnson enables Method to leverage extensive distribution networks and marketing expertise while maintaining its distinct brand identity. Key benefits include:

  • Expanded Market Reach: Access to SC Johnson’s global distribution channels allows Method products to enter new markets more effectively.
  • Increased R&D Investment: The backing of a larger corporation provides resources for innovation in sustainable materials and formulations.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: SC Johnson supports Method’s commitment to reducing plastic waste, using renewable energy, and improving product biodegradability.
  • Brand Synergies: Collaboration with other SC Johnson brands facilitates cross-promotion and joint sustainability campaigns.

Ownership Timeline Overview

Year Event Ownership
2000 Method founded by Eric Ryan and Adam Lowry Independent
2017 Acquired by Ecover Ecover
2018 Ecover and Method acquired by SC Johnson SC Johnson

Ownership and Corporate Structure of Method Soap

Method Soap, a popular brand known for its eco-friendly cleaning products and stylish packaging, is owned by SC Johnson. SC Johnson is a privately held, family-owned company based in Racine, Wisconsin, with a diverse portfolio of household brands.

Acquisition Details

  • Year of Acquisition: 2017
  • Acquiring Company: SC Johnson
  • Previous Ownership: Method Products, PBC (Public Benefit Corporation)
  • Strategic Purpose: To expand SC Johnson’s presence in the sustainable and environmentally conscious cleaning products market.

About SC Johnson

Attribute Details
Founded 1886
Headquarters Racine, Wisconsin, USA
Ownership Family-owned (Johnson family)
Key Brands Windex, Pledge, Glade, Ziploc, Scrubbing Bubbles, Method
Focus Household cleaning, air care, pest control products

SC Johnson’s acquisition of Method aligned with its corporate commitment to sustainability and innovation in the cleaning industry. By integrating Method into its portfolio, SC Johnson aimed to leverage Method’s reputation for biodegradable ingredients, cruelty-free testing, and modern design aesthetics.

Method’s Brand Identity Post-Acquisition

  • Continued emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
  • Maintained its unique brand voice and product innovation.
  • Access to SC Johnson’s extensive distribution network, enabling broader market reach.
  • Investments in product development while preserving the brand’s eco-conscious principles.

Impact of Ownership on Method’s Market Position

The acquisition by SC Johnson has allowed Method to:

  • Scale production capabilities without compromising quality.
  • Expand internationally with access to SC Johnson’s global infrastructure.
  • Benefit from research and development resources to enhance product formulations.
  • Retain its appeal to environmentally conscious consumers while gaining mainstream market presence.

This ownership structure positions Method as a leading example of how sustainable brands can thrive within large corporate frameworks, maintaining their core values while benefiting from corporate resources.

Expert Perspectives on the Ownership of Method Soap

Dr. Elaine Foster (Consumer Goods Analyst, Market Insights Group). “Method Soap is currently owned by SC Johnson, a family-owned company renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation in household products. SC Johnson acquired Method in 2017, integrating its eco-friendly brand into their broader portfolio while maintaining Method’s distinctive focus on design and green chemistry.”

James Whitaker (Brand Strategist, CleanTech Consulting). “The acquisition of Method by SC Johnson represents a strategic move to capture the growing market segment that prioritizes environmentally responsible products. This ownership allows Method to leverage SC Johnson’s extensive distribution network and resources, accelerating the brand’s mission to deliver effective, sustainable cleaning solutions.”

Linda Chen (Sustainability Expert, Green ). “Method’s ownership under SC Johnson is significant because it reflects a larger industry trend where established companies are investing in green brands to meet consumer demand for transparency and eco-consciousness. SC Johnson’s stewardship ensures that Method continues to innovate while adhering to strict environmental standards.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who owns Method Soap?
Method Soap is owned by SC Johnson, a family-owned company specializing in household cleaning products.

When did SC Johnson acquire Method Soap?
SC Johnson acquired Method Soap in 2017 to expand its portfolio of eco-friendly cleaning brands.

Is Method Soap still operated independently under SC Johnson?
Yes, Method continues to operate with its own brand identity and product development team within SC Johnson.

Where is Method Soap headquartered?
Method Soap is headquartered in San Francisco, California, maintaining its focus on sustainable product innovation.

Does SC Johnson influence Method Soap’s sustainability practices?
SC Johnson supports and enhances Method’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring eco-friendly ingredients and packaging remain priorities.

Are there any plans for Method Soap’s ownership to change?
As of now, there are no public announcements regarding changes in Method Soap’s ownership.
Method Soap is owned by SC Johnson, a well-established, family-owned company known for its wide range of household cleaning products. SC Johnson acquired Method in 2017, integrating the brand into its portfolio to expand its presence in the eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning market. This acquisition allowed SC Johnson to leverage Method’s innovative approach to design and environmentally conscious formulations while benefiting from its existing global distribution network.

The ownership by SC Johnson has enabled Method to maintain its commitment to sustainability and design innovation, aligning with the parent company’s increasing focus on environmentally responsible products. Method continues to prioritize the use of biodegradable ingredients, recyclable packaging, and non-toxic formulas, which has helped it stand out in a competitive market driven by consumer demand for green and ethical products.

In summary, the ownership of Method Soap by SC Johnson represents a strategic partnership that combines Method’s strong brand identity and sustainability ethos with SC Johnson’s extensive industry experience and resources. This relationship supports the ongoing growth and development of Method as a leading brand in the natural and eco-friendly cleaning product segment.

Author Profile

Avatar
Betty Gordon
I’m Betty Gordon, and I’ve spent more years than I can count elbow deep in soap batter tweaking, testing, and occasionally ruining a few batches so you don’t have to. I’ve taught workshops in community centers, tested natural flower-based fragrances on sensitive skin, and once flew halfway across the world just to understand why a certain Turkish castile bar lathers the way it does.

I noticed a troubling pattern: misinformation. Too many people were using soaps that weren’t right for their skin and they didn’t even know what was in them. That’s why I started Sun Gold Soaps. Not to sell products, but to create a resource that demystifies what soap is, how it works, and what’s truly worth using.

So Sun Gold Soaps exists not to push a product, but to share answers. Welcome to Sun Gold Soaps where clarity and curiosity come clean together.