The Surprising Story of Molton Brown
Molton Brown, a luxury British brand since 1971, leads globally in bath, body, and home care. Renowned for setting benchmarks in quality, elegance, and innovation, the London-rooted brand is celebrated for its meticulously crafted fragrances and commitment to sustainability.
Molton Brown’s story began in 1971 when pioneering co-founders Caroline Burstein and Michael Collis opened their original salon on South Molton Street in London’s fashionable Mayfair. The name "Molton Brown" was a fusion of the street name South Molton Street and the so-cool boutique Browns, owned by Caroline Burstein's parents.
Embracing a natural, individual-focused approach, they introduced a trendsetting concept for the time. In the salon’s basement, they hand-mixed botanical hair care products, quickly attracting a high-profile celebrity clientele. Their commitment to quality and innovation positioned them at the forefront of beauty, with their work featured on numerous Vogue covers.
Beyond their beauty innovations, Burstein and Collis were dedicated to ethical practices. They led the industry with cruelty-free products and even created an in-house vegetarian restaurant. Today, all Molton Brown formulas continue to be 100% vegetarian.
The 1980s marked a pivotal expansion for the brand. In 1984, they launched their first signature scent, known today as Orange & Bergamot, and introduced it through a luxury London hotel partnership, establishing themselves as a premier supplier of upscale amenities.
That same year, production moved to Mott’s Hall, their country home in Elsenham, where they grew and dried herbs for their products. This facility remains the heart of Molton Brown’s manufacturing today, just a few miles from their original home.
To encapsulate this transformative decade, Molton Brown published “A Way of Looking,” a book that articulated the brand’s unique, holistic approach to beauty.
A Symphony of Scents
One of Molton Brown's defining characteristics is its unwavering dedication to creating distinctive, sophisticated fragrances. Each product in their collection is infused with a carefully curated scent, developed through collaborations with some of the world’s most esteemed perfumers, like Jacques Chabert. This meticulous attention to olfactory detail has resulted in a portfolio of fragrances that cater to a wide range of tastes, from fresh and invigorating to warm and exotic. Each scent is crafted to enhance the sensory experience and evoke memories and emotions, leaving a lasting impression.
Re-charge Black Pepper: A hallmark of Molton Brown’s fragrance collection, Re-charge Black Pepper is celebrated for its bold and invigorating aroma. Introduced in 2002, this fragrance quickly gained recognition as a flagship scent, embodying the brand's commitment to bold, distinctive fragrances. The scent is characterised by its spicy, aromatic notes of black peppercorn oil, which blend seamlessly with coriander and vetiver. This combination creates a fragrance that is both energising and complex, with a warm, woody base that lingers long after application. Re-charge Black Pepper stands out for its modern twist on classic spice notes, making it a favourite among those who appreciate a fragrance with depth and character.
Orange & Bergamot: Orange & Bergamot is one of Molton Brown’s oldest and most cherished fragrances, reflecting the brand’s long-standing tradition of excellence in perfumery. Launched to capture the essence of the Mediterranean sun, this scent draws inspiration from the vibrant orange groves of Seville. The fragrance features a bright and uplifting blend of orange oil, bergamot, and neroli, creating a composition that is both fresh and zesty. The delicate sweetness of the orange and the crisp citrus notes of bergamot are perfectly balanced, evoking the warmth and vibrancy of a Mediterranean landscape. Orange & Bergamot is ideal for those seeking a fragrance that brings a touch of sunshine to their daily routine.
Fiery Pink Pepper: Since its launch, Fiery Pink Pepper has captivated fragrance enthusiasts with its exotic and seductive profile. This scent stands out with its blend of pink pepper, ginger, and patchouli, creating a fragrance that is warm, spicy, and intriguingly deep. The pink pepper adds a vibrant, piquant quality, while the ginger introduces a hint of spice and warmth. Patchouli grounds the fragrance with its rich, earthy base, making Fiery Pink Pepper both playful and sophisticated. It has become a favourite for those who enjoy a fragrance that is bold and feminine, offering a unique scent experience that is both dynamic and elegant.
Coastal Cypress & Sea Fennel: A more recent addition to the Molton Brown collection, Coastal Cypress & Sea Fennel captures the invigorating essence of the coastline. This fragrance is designed to evoke the fresh, bracing sea air and the rugged beauty of the coastal landscape. With its blend of cypress, cardamom, and jasmine, Coastal Cypress & Sea Fennel offers a scent that is both revitalising and reminiscent of a sea breeze. The cypress provides a green, woody note, while cardamom adds a touch of spice. Jasmine introduces a soft floral element, creating a balanced, fresh fragrance that is ideal for those who appreciate the natural beauty of the coast. This fragrance reflects Molton Brown's commitment to crafting scents that celebrate the natural world and its diverse landscapes.
The brand’s approach to fragrance development involves a careful selection of premium ingredients and a precise blending process that ensures each scent achieves perfect balance and complexity. This commitment is mirrored in the rich textures and luxurious formulations of Molton Brown’s body washes and lotions, all of which are designed to complement and enhance the overall fragrance experience.
Staying true to its roots, Molton Brown prioritises natural ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship. This dedication continues to define their luxury offerings, transforming daily routines into moments of indulgence and sophistication. The brand’s portfolio exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting a steadfast commitment to excellence.
Sustainability is integral to Molton Brown’s philosophy. The brand is an active member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), ensuring that all palm oil derivatives are sourced responsibly. Additionally, Molton Brown has achieved Leaping Bunny certification, affirming that its products are cruelty-free and not tested on animals.
In response to the growing demand for eco-conscious luxury, Molton Brown has introduced a range of sustainable packaging solutions, including refillable options for many of its popular products. This initiative supports environmental responsibility and reduces waste, aligning with the brand’s vision of sustainable luxury.
Molton Brown’s commitment to ethical practices extends throughout its supply chain. The brand collaborates closely with suppliers to uphold fair labour practices and promote environmental stewardship, reflecting a holistic approach to responsibility in every aspect of production.
Mark Johnson, Molton Brown's Global President (For CEO magazine)
Since its inception on South Molton Street in London in 1971, Molton Brown has evolved into a globally recognised luxury brand. With a presence in over 70 countries, its products are featured in prestigious department stores such as Selfridges, and are a preferred choice for luxury hotel amenities worldwide.
The brand’s expansion has been managed to maintain its exclusive image and uphold high standards of quality and craftsmanship. Molton Brown continues to receive accolades for its luxurious products and innovative formulations, reinforcing its status as a leader in the luxury personal care sector.
Through its successful blend of tradition and modernity, Molton Brown remains a celebrated name in personal care, admired for its commitment to both luxury and ethical responsibility. Its ability to innovate while honouring its heritage ensures that it remains a beloved choice for discerning customers around the globe.
At the heart of Molton Brown’s appeal is its unique ability to blend tradition with modernity. The brand’s products celebrate British heritage, enhanced with contemporary touches that resonate with today’s discerning consumer. From the elegant packaging to the luxurious formulations, every element is crafted to evoke a sense of indulgence and sophistication.
Caroline Burstein, Co-founder of Molton Brown
The packaging itself is a reflection of the brand’s ethos. Molton Brown’s bottles and jars are renowned for their sleek, minimalist design, often adorned with the brand’s signature logo and a touch of vibrant colour. This meticulous attention to detail extends to the brand’s gift sets, which are presented in beautifully crafted boxes, making them an ideal choice for special occasions.
Molton Brown stands as a testament to British luxury, offering products that transform everyday routines into moments of indulgence. With its rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, and focus on sustainability, the brand continues to lead the way in the luxury bath and body care market. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Molton Brown offers an experience that is both timeless and modern—a true reflection of British craftsmanship at its finest.
