In 1807, Andrew Pears founded the Pears Soap Company, producing transparent glycerin soap that pioneered branded consumer hygiene products. This innovation marked a significant shift in the marketing of personal care items, as Pears introduced advertising strategies that emphasized quality and purity. The success of Pears Soap set a precedent for the modern consumer goods industry and influenced the development of branding in the 19th century.

The founding of the Pears Soap Company in 1807 contributed to the rise of consumer culture in Britain. Victorian poets often incorporated themes of hygiene and moral purity into their works, reflecting societal values and the changing perceptions of cleanliness.