Skip to main content

Bic Clic celebrates 60 years

| Awards and achievements

The Bic Clic ballpoint pen celebrates 60 years of smooth writing by releasing a limited edition silver and gold Bic Clic pen pack that benefits underprivileged children.

The traditional ‘click to write’ pen has a significant presence as a staple part of every South African’s stationery collection from students to office workers and everyone in between. 


As part of the 60th celebrations, for every specially marked pen pack that is purchased, Bic is donating pens to underprivileged children and already five million pens have been given away. A pen symbolises intellect and potential that can be realised with the help of a solid education and the brand positions itself strongly in the promotion of education.

Marcel Bich, founder of the Bic Company, was born in Turin on 29 July 1914. In 1944, with his business partner Edouard Buffard, he bought an empty factory in Clichy, near Paris and there, started to manufacture parts for writing instruments. He then discovered the huge potential of the ball pen and in December 1950, launched his own model, Bic Cristal – the first high quality affordable pen. It quickly became a success and the range extended with other models such as the Bic Clic in 1956. Between 1956 and 1960, it was introduced to France, South Africa, New Zealand and Scandinavia. Today, in these countries, it is still one of the most popular pen brands.

Pin It

Related Articles

The Shoprite Group has been recognised as a Top Employer for 2024 by the Top Employers Institute, a global authority on excellence in people practices.  
The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) is a non-profit trade association that promotes private labels.
Shoprite, Usave and Checkers’ private label products clinched the top spot in four categories, including best Mild Cheddar Cheese, UHT Milk – Full Cream, and Low-Fat Plain Yoghurt, at the 191st South African Dairy Awards. 
The Shoprite Group received two accolades for its Xtra Savings rewards programme from the prestigious 2024 International Loyalty Awards held at a gala event in Dubai.
The Shoprite Group received two accolades for its Xtra Savings rewards programme from the prestigious 2024 International Loyalty Awards held at a gala event in Dubai.