Fisherman's Friend Menthol Lozenges

Fisherman's Friend is a brand of strong menthol lozenges that originated in Fleetwood, Lancashire, England, in 1865. Pharmacist James Lofthouse developed the lozenges to alleviate respiratory issues faced by fishermen working in the harsh conditions of the northern deep-sea fishing grounds. Initially created as a potent liquid remedy containing menthol and eucalyptus oil, Lofthouse later transformed it into lozenge form for easier transport and administration. The fishermen began referring to the lozenges as 'friends,' leading to the brand name 'Fisherman's Friend.'

The company, Lofthouse of Fleetwood Ltd., has remained family-owned since its inception. Over the years, Fisherman's Friend expanded its reach, introducing various flavors to cater to regional tastes and exporting to multiple countries. In 2021, the company was acquired by Reckitt Benckiser Group plc, a British multinational consumer goods company specializing in health, hygiene, and home products. Despite the change in ownership, Fisherman's Friend continues to be produced in multiple countries to meet global demand, ensuring quality and consistency across its offerings. The brand remains a testament to its British heritage and enduring popularity worldwide.