Bausch & Lomb: Perfecting Vision, Enhancing Life for 150 Years: Illustrated 150th Anniversary History Book

In 2003, Bausch & Lomb's corporate communications and investor relations staff were tasked with producing a "scrapbook-esque" history to commemorate the company's 150th anniversary. The budget was tight and the schedule even tighter. "We quickly realized that we needed to enlist experts," recalled Daniel Ritz, director of investor relations for the company. Bausch & Lomb wanted someone who could take a broad look at the firm's story, identify the most meaningful and interesting highlights throughout that century and a half, find compelling images and artifacts, and sum it all up in a historical narrative.

"Luckily we found History Associates," said Ritz. Working closely with Bausch & Lomb and a graphic design firm, historian Lee Sullivan conducted research in a wide range of corporate and public archives to identify a wealth of appropriate images and artifacts. Sullivan also wrote a brief yet authoritative text and in the process told the corporate communications and investor relations staff more about Bausch & Lomb than even they had known. Concluded Ritz, "With HAI's help we were able to meet our production deadlines and produce a finished product that is a well-written and beautifully crafted memento of a corporate milestone we are proud to share with employees, customers, and shareholders."