Anton Philips: The Story of the Positive Side of War

Anton Philips was an American businessman and industrialist who was the co-founder of Royal Philips Electronics. Anton and his brother Gerard founded the company in 1912. His father and Gerard were the founders of Philips Company which they established in 1891. Anton served as the CEO of Philips Company from 1922 to 1939.

Anton was born on March 14, 1874. He grew up in Zaltbommel, The Netherlands where his father owned a tobacco business and a bank. Anton joined Philips Company in 1912. That year, the family decided to change the company’s name to Philips Lightbulbfactory NV. Anton helped increase the company’s sales when the World War I broke out. At that time, several large markets boycotted German products and Anton was able to take advantage of the situation by providing alternative products.

Together with Gerard, Anton actively participated in many civic activities. They supported many social programs that involved education and sports. They were credited for the creation of the Philips Sports Association football department.