Castrol, a renowned brand in the automotive industry, has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Initially known as CC Wakefield & Co., the company was founded by Charles Wakefield in London in 1899. The company’s focus was on producing lubricants for trains and heavy machinery.
Key Facts
- The company was originally named CC Wakefield & Co. when it was founded by Charles Wakefield in London in 1899.
- In 1909, CC Wakefield & Co. started producing a new automotive motor oil called Castrol.
- The name Castrol is derived from one of the main ingredients used in the production of the motor oil at that time, castor oil.
- Initially, Castrol was just the brand name for CC Wakefield’s motor oils, but eventually, the company changed its name to Castrol Limited when the product name became better-known than the original company name.
- Castrol Limited was acquired by Burmah Oil in 1966 and became Burmah-Castrol.
- In 2000, Burmah-Castrol was purchased by BP (British Petroleum), and since then, Castrol has remained a subsidiary of BP.
The Birth of Castrol: A Blend of Innovation and Natural Elements
In 1909, CC Wakefield & Co. ventured into the production of automotive motor oils, introducing a new product named Castrol. This innovative motor oil was formulated with castor oil, a vegetable oil derived from castor beans, as one of its key ingredients. The addition of castor oil provided the oil with unique properties, making it suitable for the demanding requirements of automobiles and aeroplanes, which were gaining popularity at the time.
From Brand Name to Company Identity: The Rise of Castrol
Initially, Castrol was merely a brand name for CC Wakefield’s motor oils. However, as the product gained recognition and popularity among consumers, the company eventually decided to adopt the name Castrol Limited in 1960, reflecting the growing prominence of the Castrol brand. This decision solidified Castrol’s position as a leading name in the automotive lubricant industry.
The Burmah-Castrol Merger and the BP Acquisition
In 1966, Castrol Limited merged with Burmah Oil, a prominent British oil company, forming Burmah-Castrol. This merger brought together two established players in the industry, further strengthening their market presence. In 2000, Burmah-Castrol was acquired by BP (British Petroleum), a global energy giant. Since then, Castrol has continued to operate as a subsidiary of BP, maintaining its reputation as a trusted brand in the automotive lubricant sector.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Quality
The Castrol name, derived from the incorporation of castor oil in its motor oil formulation, has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and performance in the automotive industry. From its humble beginnings as CC Wakefield & Co. to its current status as a subsidiary of BP, Castrol has consistently delivered high-quality lubricants, earning the trust and loyalty of consumers worldwide.
Sources
- Castrol. (n.d.). Castrol – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castrol
- Castrol Logo and symbol, meaning, history, PNG, brand. (n.d.). 1000 Logos. https://1000logos.net/castrol-logo/
- Jenkinson, C. (2011, October 14). A Brief History of Castrol Oil Ltd. Articles Factory. https://www.articlesfactory.com/articles/business/a-brief-history-of-castrol-oil-ltd.html
FAQs
What was the original name of the company that produced Castrol?
CC Wakefield & Co.
When was Castrol first introduced?
1909
What is the origin of the name Castrol?
The name Castrol is derived from castor oil, a vegetable oil used as one of the main ingredients in the original Castrol motor oil formulation.
When did CC Wakefield & Co. change its name to Castrol Limited?
1960
What was the significance of the merger between Castrol Limited and Burmah Oil?
The merger in 1966 created Burmah-Castrol, a stronger entity in the oil industry.
When did BP acquire Burmah-Castrol?
2000
Is Castrol still a subsidiary of BP?
Yes, Castrol remains a subsidiary of BP, operating under the BP Lubricants division.
What is Castrol’s current position in the automotive lubricant industry?
Castrol is a leading global brand in the automotive lubricant industry, known for its high-quality products and strong brand recognition.