Pelikan pencil sharpener

Pelikan is a prestigious German brand with a history dating back to 1838, founded by chemist Carl Hornemann in Hanover. Initially specialized in inks and watercolors, the brand became synonymous with high-quality writing instruments and stationery. For decades, it was a family-owned German enterprise, but it underwent significant ownership changes in the late 20th century.

Starting in 1996, it was acquired by the Malaysian businessman Hooi Keat Loo through Pelikan International Corporation Berhad (PICB). However, in a major shift for the brand's future, Pelikan's core stationery business was sold to the French group Hamelin in 2023. This acquisition ensures that the legendary brand remains under the umbrella of a European specialist in school and office supplies. While Pelikan maintains manufacturing facilities in Germany (notably in Peine for high-end pens), many secondary stationery products like pencil sharpeners are produced in various global locations including Poland, Mexico, and China.