Packages and closures for packaging

Discover the history of the first lotion pump…

Have you ever wondered how the first lotion pump was created? There’s an interesting story behind it, all thanks to Robert R. Taylor.


Robert R. Taylor, the founder of Minnetonka Corporation, noticed that traditional bar soap was not always the most hygienic or convenient option. He realized there had to be a better solution. Starting with a marketing concept and conducting numerous experiments, he developed liquid soap that could be easily dispensed and used without touching the entire surface of a soap bar.


In 1980, Taylor introduced “Softsoap”- the first liquid soap in a modern pump bottle. This innovation allowed for precise and hygienic dispensing, significantly improving hygiene standards in public places. Softsoap quickly gained popularity. To secure his competitive edge, Minnetonka Corporation purchased most of the dispensers available from the only two manufacturers in the U.S. This strategic move prevented competitors from launching similar products for a year. In 1987, the brand was acquired by Colgate, further expanding the reach of this technology.


The story of Softsoap is a great example of how a brilliant idea can transform the daily habits of millions. It became a groundbreaking milestone in packaging history. Today, pump bottles are an essential part of hygiene maintenance and convenient product application.


At Polpak Packaging, we offer a wide range of lotion pumps, available immediately from our regular distribution or as custom orders tailored to specific needs. Our portfolio includes big dosage pumps for denser products, all-plastic pumps, innovative no-contact lotion pumps- perfect for natural cosmetics, and many more.


Our key advantage is personalization: from ordering different components and decorating to selecting tube lengths and colors to best match the client’s needs.


Now that you know the history of the first lotion pump, let’s create the next one together…


If you’d like to learn more about our products, call us at (+48) 22 752 34 23 or email us at biuro@polpak.pl.

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