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Henkel Provides Sticky Solutions for Crafty Creations

Pritt and Sellotape are beloved Henkel products globally as well as in the UK and Ireland market. For consumers, they have been trusted household staples for decades and linked to many nostalgic memories such as gift-wrapping. They have also had a historic link to the UK, with the Pritt character being designed locally and Sellotape being a British heritage brand.

DIY & Professionals Innovation 25 Mar 2026
Banner with person utilising Pritt glue stick and the title “Henkel Provides Sticky Solutions for Crafty Creations”

The glue stick as we know it today was invented by Henkel engineer Dr. Wolfgang Dierichs, and launched in 1969. This invention was inspired by the “twist-up” mechanism and convenience of lipstick applicators, an idea that would go on to change the world of glue for consumers. Their impact on households, offices, and schools all started with one pioneering idea!  Pritt glue sticks are now sold in more than 120 countries worldwide.

Early Pritt glue stick with the cover removed

Sellotape was invented in 1937 by Colin Kininmonth and George Gray in West London. Its use was popularised in WWII to help protect windows from damage and seal ammunition boxes. Sellotape leads the local market as a sticky tape brand today and has had its own entry in the Oxford English Dictionary since 1980. Henkel acquired Sellotape in 2002, with its invention being part of its pioneering catalogue ever since.

Old advertisement for Sellotape for gift wrapping

Pritt glue sticks have become a staple in homes, schools, and offices since their introduction to the UK and Ireland market with the iconic Pritt character being designed by Arnold Sindle in Manchester in 1987. These glue sticks have a safe formula, currently with over 97% natural ingredients. This means that they are a great adhesive to use for crafts, activities, and for other DIY projects, making it a preferred option for kids.

A person utilising a Pritt glue stick to create paper crafts

Additionally, Sellotape has been a heritage British brand for decades, known for their iconic “Original Golden” product. Currently, Sellotape’s expanded range includes clear tapes, as well as more eco-friendly options, continuing their legacy as the UK’s leading sticky tape brand. The nostalgia attached to Sellotape is also undeniable, as consumers link it to wrapping presents throughout the years. They have had countless Christmas campaigns which expands on this and weaves the importance of Sellotape during the festive season.

A person utilising Sellotape to wrap gifts with tagline “Perfect for wrapping”

 

Read more about Henkel’s 150 years of history here

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