Burt Shavitz
Burt Shavitz | |
|---|---|
| Born | Ingram Berg Shavitz 15 May 1935 Manhattan, New York, U.S. |
| Died | 5 July 2015 (aged 80) Bangor, Maine, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, beekeeper, photographer |
| Known for | Co-founder of Burt's Bees |
Ingram Berg Shavitz (May 15, 1935 – July 5, 2015), professionally recognized as Burt Shavitz, was an American entrepreneur and beekeeper who co-established the Burt's Bees personal care brand alongside Roxanne Quimby. His image is featured on the packaging of Burt's Bees products.
Early life
Born Ingram Shavitz into a Jewish family in Manhattan, Burt Shavitz was raised in Great Neck, New York. Upon completing high school in 1953, he legally changed his name. Following his military service, he resided in Manhattan where he pursued photography, documenting events such as African American Muslim gatherings and Bowery drug dealers; his work appeared in publications like Time and Life magazines.
Business career
Shavitz initially engaged in beekeeping as a pastime in New Paltz, NY, before relocating to Maine where he transformed this hobby into a commercial venture. He encountered Roxanne Quimby, who began marketing his beeswax candles at community fairs. Increasing demand and production culminated in the creation of Burt's Bees during the 1980s. The company expanded operations to North Carolina by 1994. Eventually, Shavitz and Quimby's business partnership ended, with Quimby purchasing Shavitz’s shares. In 2007, Clorox acquired Burt's Bees for an amount exceeding $900 million. Known for his self-identification as a hippie and nature enthusiast, Shavitz prioritized environmental preservation over financial gain.
Documentary
The 2014 documentary Burt's Buzz delves into Shavitz’s biography, his involvement in founding Burt's Bees, and his subsequent endeavors as a beekeeper and businessman.
Death
Shavitz passed away at age 80 on July 5, 2015, in Bangor, Maine due to respiratory complications. At the time of his death, he resided in Parkman, Maine.