The Top Soap Startups That Are Scrubbing Away The Competition

Whilst the soap industry has been around for hundreds of years, it’s still an area that startups are looking to innovate in.

And yes, it is true that whilst soap may not be the most exciting product, it’s certainly one of the most useful. In fact, the UK soap & detergent industry is worth a huge £2.7bn in 2023.

Whilst industry giants like Unilever and Procter & Gamble are dominating the space, a number of smaller businesses have popped up to challenge them.

 

The History Of Soap In The UK

 

The history of soap in the UK stretches back many centuries and can even be traced back to the Roman era.

Historians believe that it was The Romans who first introduced soap to Britain, where it was used for clothes. Fast forward to the medieval period, and soap for personal hygiene was a luxury commodity, made from animal fat, ash and botanicals.

At that period, soap was reserved for the upper classes and those who could afford it, rather than the general masses.

In the Industrial Revolution, soap became a more common household commodity, with businesses creating it into a more affordable product.

As the 20th century came around, the creation of synthetic detergents for soap, that didn’t rely on animal fat, helped make it more accessible.

Today, the industry is booming, with multinational corporations and startups both developing products to entice consumers.

 

 

Soap Startups

 

Little Soap Company

 

 

The Little Soap company exists to give consumers soap options that don’t contain synthetic products and are not cased in plastic bottles.

The company boasts environmentally friendly ingredients and packaging, helping consumers have more natural alternatives.

Today, the company is stocked in major UK supermarkets and is pioneering the natural soap industry.

 

Friendly Soap

 

 

Friendly Soap is another company that produces natural, plant based, palm oil and plastic-free soap.

Not just limited to soap, but expanded to shampoo and conditioner too, the brand has a selection of products catering to those looking for more organic options.

 

Bare Bar

 

 

 

Bare Bar, another natural soap company, created products that focus on moisturising skin, without using chemicals.

Entirely vegan and including a range of deodorants too, Bare Bar is the perfect soap for anyone looking for strong smelling soap, without any nasties.

 

All Natural Soap Co

 

 

The All Natural Soap Co. is an artisan natural soap maker that uses unique techniques to create their range of products.

With a variety of colours, textures and scents, their soaps are entirely vegetarian and feature seasonal soaps to match the freshest produce at different times of the year.

 

Ethical Superstore

 

 

Ethical Superstore is a company for consumers who want to make more ethical purchases.

Stocking only brands that meet its guidelines, it offers a whole selection of natural and eco-friendly soap brands.