GSK plc

Glaxo Factory, Bunnythorpe, New Zealand 03

Glaxo feeder bottle with packaging

BeechamsBuilding

Andrew Witty in 2015

GSK plc (GlaxoSmithKline) is a British multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Brentford, England. It was established in 2000 by the merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham. GSK is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies and is listed on the London Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange.

History

GSK was formed in 2000 through the merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham. Glaxo Wellcome itself was formed in 1995 by the merger of Glaxo and Wellcome, while SmithKline Beecham was formed in 1989 by the merger of SmithKline Beckman and Beecham Group.

Glaxo Wellcome

Glaxo was founded in 1873 in New Zealand as a baby food manufacturer. It later moved into pharmaceuticals, becoming a major player in the industry. Wellcome was founded in 1880 in London by American pharmacist Henry Wellcome and his colleague Silas Burroughs.

SmithKline Beecham

SmithKline Beckman was formed in 1963 by the merger of Smith Kline & French and Beckman Instruments. Beecham was founded in 1843 by Thomas Beecham in England.

Operations

GSK operates in three main areas: pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and consumer healthcare. The company has a significant presence in the fields of respiratory, HIV, immuno-inflammation, and oncology.

Pharmaceuticals

GSK's pharmaceutical division focuses on developing medicines for a range of conditions, including respiratory diseases, HIV, and cancer. Some of its well-known products include Advair, Augmentin, and Lamictal.

Vaccines

GSK is one of the world's largest vaccine manufacturers. It produces vaccines for a variety of diseases, including influenza, hepatitis, and meningitis. The company has also been involved in the development of vaccines for COVID-19.

Consumer Healthcare

GSK's consumer healthcare division produces a range of over-the-counter medicines, oral health products, and nutritional products. Some of its well-known brands include Sensodyne, Panadol, and Voltaren.

Research and Development

GSK invests heavily in research and development (R&D) to discover new medicines and vaccines. The company has R&D centers in the United Kingdom, the United States, Belgium, and China. GSK collaborates with academic institutions, research organizations, and other pharmaceutical companies to advance its R&D efforts.

Corporate Social Responsibility

GSK is committed to improving global health and has various initiatives aimed at increasing access to medicines in developing countries. The company also focuses on environmental sustainability and ethical business practices.

Controversies

GSK has faced several controversies over the years, including legal issues related to marketing practices and drug safety. The company has paid significant fines and settlements in various cases.

See Also

• Pharmaceutical industry
• List of pharmaceutical companies
• Vaccines
• Consumer healthcare