Greek success story and talent

With over seven decades of presence in the market Pick Biolux He turns it Greek Miracle, using Greek minds that produce knowledge to manufacture shaving products that the company exports around the world as the eighth largest exporter of blades and razors worldwide.

At the BIC Violex plant in Anixi, the largest razor blade production unit in the French BIC Group, with 1,500 employees, 25 million razors are produced every week. 99% of production is exported to more than 100 countries around the world, mainly to North America, Mexico and Europe. The constant focus on innovation has led to more than 40 product upgrades, providing a compass for global industry developments.

Innovation has been in BIC Violex’s DNA since the Politis-Vetopoulos era, before it joined the French BIC group, with the partnership in the 1970s and the full acquisition in 1999.

It is worth mentioning that BIC Violex owes its existence to Adam Politis and his son-in-law, Dimitris Fitopoulos, who started the family business, Violex, in 1952, with the production of double-edged blades “Astor”. These blades won over consumers at that time due to their good quality and reasonable prices, and their reputation traveled abroad. The next step in the development of the company was taken in the 1970s by the new generation headed by Anastasios Politis, son of Adam Politis and Giorgos Kova, wife of Eros Fitopoulos, daughter of Dimitris Fitopoulos.

In particular, 1973 was a historic year, as the Swedish engineer Kenneth Gellerström designed the first disposable razor at the Violex facilities in Peristeri, a product in which Marcel Pietsch, the founder of BIC, would invest. Thus, in 1974, BIC Violex was created, launching the world’s first disposable razor. The success story continues as the company systematically invests in scientific and technological research.

Huge investments in research and development

Total investments in advanced technologies as well as in research and development (R&D) have exceeded EUR 500 million in the past five decades. In 2022, based on the company’s latest published financial statements, significant investments in mechanical equipment, totaling EUR 28 million, were made with the aim of increasing production capacity, producing new products and acquiring new technology, while in 2023 the company continues its investment programme in fixed equipment, mainly in the production of new technologically advanced products.

The company’s turnover is close to 200 million euros. In 2022 it reached 182.1 million euros, with sales growing by 2.1% in the domestic market where in addition to shaving products the company has graphic elements and lighters as well as other goods such as shaving foam, tights and socks. Based on its performance, BIC Violex is among the top 200 companies in terms of EBITDA, sales and exports, and is among the top 50 companies in the FMCG sector in Greece, with the products ranking 61st among the country’s exported products.

Engineering recruitment and patents

According to the company’s data, as one of the top 60 employers in Greece, it plays a crucial role in promoting economic development, having provided stable employment to around 8,000 workers over the past 50 years, while today employing 1,500 workers in production, marketing, purchasing and innovation, as well as research and development (R&D). It recruits an average of 10 young engineers each year from Greek universities. It is also no coincidence that it has obtained 1,373 patents for excellence in blade manufacturing, 1,101 of which have already been granted and 272 patents are pending at patent offices around the world.

BIC Biolex is also committed to the Sustainable Development Goals. Having adopted environmental and energy management systems since 2006 and 2015 respectively, and having moved to 100% renewable energy sources, it is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and highlighting high standards of sustainable production in Greece. BIC Violex is the first company in Greece to use, since 2016, 100% renewable energy with a guarantee of origin. It is now focusing on using recycled materials, reducing CO2 emissions and investing in green energy solutions.

In terms of social footprint, from donating firefighting equipment to supporting education and diversity initiatives, BIC Biolex is committed to making a positive impact in the communities in which it operates. Through strategic partnerships with educational institutions, NGOs and youth organizations, it supports educational programs, provides training opportunities and invests in initiatives that pave the way for a better future for Greece.

In the world

The BIC Group, the world leader in graphics, lighters and shavers, with 24 factories and nearly 15,000 employees, has established itself as one of the most recognized brands worldwide. Founded by Marcel Bic in 1945, BIC® products are today sold in more than 160 countries worldwide, having won the trust of consumers. In 2023, BIC’s net sales amounted to €2.263 billion. The company is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is a member of the SBF 120 and CAC Mid 60 indices.

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