Explore our history and some of the highlights that make Fromm the beauty industry leader it is today.

Illinois Razor Strop Co. was founded by James Simon, selling razor strops to barbers.

James Simon’s son, Edwin, joined the company and was sent to work in a tannery. At that time, the company had four factory employees and one office administrator. Later that year, Edwin came back to learn and grow the business and eventually became President.

Clipper-Mate Hard Rubber Comb brand is introduced as Fromm expands into tools outside of cutlery.

Fromm Cutlery is purchased from Otto and Walter Fromm and the Illinois Razor Strop Company started selling Fromm brand shears.

Company name was changed to Fromm International, recognizing the importance of Fromm shears as well as the international reach of its business.

Fromm invents “self-selling scissors” on the registered “Try-It” cards which was an innovation in how shears were sold in the industry. Additionally, Fromm became the new US importer for Jaguar Shears.

FROMM Premium Shear brand is launched. Kevin Johnson becomes President and Kevin Barrett is hired as the Vice President.

Fromm diversifies into salon apparel with the purchase of Andre Fantasies.

Fromm launches patented Double-Dip comb technology with the purchase of Mebco Combs.

Fromm International is proud to partner with Dorco offering a variety of single and double edge blades including our exclusive distribution of Dorco Prime and Dorco for Barber.

Fromm acquires Diane Products Company which builds on the number of products and product categories Fromm offers while establishing an expertise on tools for textured hair.

The company moved to current Mt. Prospect location with a 70,000 sq. ft. facility.

Fromm’s Beauty Education kit was launched.

Fromm relaunches a modern, sophisticated update to the long-standing Fromm brand. With a nod to its roots, the Fromm Pro first launches a shear collection followed by other key categories that outfit a salon including brushes and combs, salon apparel, gloves, foil and towels.

Kevin Barrett becomes President of Fromm.
Fromm launches The Hair Edit brand, a new curated collection of on-trend beauty tools and hair accessories for consumers.
Fromm becomes the exclusive U.S. distributor of Personna, making Fromm an expert in high-quality razor and blade solutions. Fromm also becomes the exclusive U.S. distributor of Credo, a top manufacturer for premium quality pedicure tools.
Diane unveils a new brand identity including new packaging, logo and brand colors. Diane Men brand is launched at the same time.

The Hair Edit is successfully introduced at Ulta, Walgreens and CVS selected stores.

The Hair Edit’s French Twist Clip is named Best Hair Clip in Allure Best of Beauty Awards.

Looking forward: Fromm continues to grow and prosper as a leader in the professional and consumer beauty industry.
ABOUT US
Since 1907, Fromm has been a leading marketer of beauty products serving both the professional and consumer. With expertise in a variety of categories including shears, salon apparel, hair accessories, brushes, combs, gloves and towels, Fromm products are designed with rigorous attention to detail and superior craftsmanship.
Fromm continues to carry out our mission statement of Enhancing Beauty Experiences with a curated product collection that boasts the latest technology, high quality materials, and superior design for unparalleled performance. All products are developed with the utmost care and are widely well-received and highly rated by our customers.


For over 115 years, this family-owned business has enjoyed an enviable reputation as one of the best companies to do business within the beauty industry. This accolade reflects the company’s high standards that include fair and ethical business practices, integrated sales and marketing programs, outstanding customer service and a continued commitment to reinvent and improve as times change.
If history is any indication, Fromm will continue to thrive whatever the future holds.