Procter & Gamble Co. (P&G), the parent company of Gillette, has unveiled plans to relocate its manufacturing operations from the iconic South Boston building. While the global headquarters and innovation center will remain in South Boston, the manufacturing component will be shifted to the Andover facility, marking a significant transformation for the brand.
P&G announced this strategic shift in a press release, outlining the transition’s phased approach, with the first employees expected to commence relocation over the next two to three years. Importantly, the company has assured existing staff working at the South Boston manufacturing site that they will be offered positions at the Andover facility.
Gary Coombe, CEO of P&G Grooming, emphasized the significance of this transition, noting, “This is a critical moment for our business to ensure that we have the right infrastructure and capabilities to win for the next century.”
The decision follows a formal site assessment conducted by P&G in 2019, aimed at rejuvenating the Gillette business. The assessment concluded with two pivotal outcomes: retaining both commercial and technical operations in South Boston and expanding the brand’s footprint on its extensive 150-acre Andover campus.
In the wake of this transition, Andover’s role as a 21st-century manufacturing center will be enhanced, with a focus on creating Gillette’s grooming products, including their renowned blades and razors.
Gary Coombe expressed confidence in the strategic choice, highlighting the enduring presence of the company in both communities, particularly in Boston. He believes that this shift will leave a significant and lasting legacy for everyone involved.
Moreover, this move is set to reimagine Gillette’s 31-acre waterfront campus in South Boston, promising to unlock new possibilities and innovations for the future.
As Gillette adapts to changing market dynamics and evolving consumer needs, this transition reflects a pivotal moment in the brand’s history. While the iconic South Boston building has played a significant role in Gillette’s legacy, this move underscores the commitment to modernizing and staying ahead in the competitive grooming industry.