PHILIPS' GLOEILAMPENFABRIEKEN, NV

(Dutch: "Philips' Incandescent Lamp Works, Ltd."), major Dutch manufacturer of consumer electronics, electronic components, household appliances, lighting equipment, and computer and telecommunications equipment. Its headquarters are in Eindhoven, The Netherlands. The company was founded by the Dutch engineer Gerard Philips with financing from his father Frederik in 1891 to make incandescent lamps. Its original name was Philips and Company. The entry of Gerard's younger brother Anton in 1895 insured the struggling firm's future survival, and it was incorporated under its present name in 1912. Philips' traditionally strong research efforts were consolidated in 1914 in a separate organization that eventually became the Philips Research Laboratories. In the 1920s Philips began manufacturing radio sets and other complete products as part of a successful diversification program. After the interruption of World War II, during which the Philips management took refuge in the United States, the company continued to grow and prosper, marketing its products under such brand names as Philips, Magnavox, and Norelco. The company is credited with having helped create the compact disc, the cassette tape, and the videocassette recorder. By the late 20th century it had become one of the largest private employers in Europe. Philips has several major product areas: lighting and batteries; home electronics-televisions, radios, compact disc players, and audio and video recorders; home appliances and personal care products; and professional products, including telecommunications, computer systems, and office equipment. Philips has manufacturing and marketing subsidiaries throughout the world, among which is North American Philips Corporation.