Singer Bangladesh Limited (Bangladesh)

Singer Bangladesh Limited is a company located in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The company has a long history, starting in 1851 when it was founded as I.M. Singer & Company by Sir Isaac Merritt Singer. Initially, the company manufactured and sold sewing machines to automate and assist in clothing production. Over the years, Singer has become a world leader in the manufacturing and distribution of sewing-related products. In 1876, Singer became the first multinational industrial company by manufacturing sewing machines in Glasgow, Scotland. By 1880, the company had sold 250,000 units worldwide. Singer established additional factories in New Jersey and developed its well-known emblem, the RED S Girl Trademark. In 1889, Singer introduced the first electric sewing machine, and by the turn of the century, annual sales reached US$1.35 million. To handle sales and distribution in the western hemisphere, Singer established a separate subsidiary called the Singer Sewing Machine Company. In 1908, the Singer Building in New York became the company's headquarters for the next 54 years and was the tallest building and the first skyscraper in the world at that time. Capitalizing on its brand name, hire-purchase plan, and extensive retail network, Singer expanded its product offerings to include electronics, home appliances, and other consumer durables. The company focused on the Asia Pacific Rim, Latin America, and the Caribbean markets. Today, Singer is a well-known household name worldwide for a wide range of home products. Singer's presence in Bangladesh dates back to the British colonial era, with operations starting in 1905. After the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, Bangladesh became part of Pakistan, and Singer operated as a branch of Singer Pakistan. After Bangladesh gained independence in 1971, Singer established itself as a separate country office. In 1979, Singer registered as an operating company in Bangladesh, with 80% of the shares held by Singer Sewing Machine Company (SSMC) and 20% by local shareholders. The company was listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange in 1983 and the Chittagong Stock Exchange in 2001. While sewing machines remain Singer's core business, the company recognized the need for diversification. Starting in 1985, Singer began expanding into various consumer durable product ranges. This diversification has continued over the years, with Singer introducing products such as refrigerators, televisions, furniture, air conditioners, washing machines, and more. In 2013, Singer ventured into the manufacturing and marketing of furniture as part of its diversification program.