However, its residents were not those blessed by a successful lineage, nor were they the business-savvy merchants taking full advantage of the Mersey’s international connections; they all worked for the Lever Brothers’ Soap Factory. Owner, William Lever, was a philanthropist and wanted the model village to not only provide housing for his staff but also to strengthen relationships amongst the workers.
Along with housing for the staff, Port Sunlight also had a hospital, school, swimming pool and church, with the church being the pillar of the community. Lever shared the company’s profits with Port Sunlight’s inhabitants, by pumping the money back into the local community. The workers and their families were entertained in the local concert hall, with Lever footing the bill.
In 1929, Lever Brothers merged with Margarine Unie and together, formed Unilever, the household brand that is known across the globe. Prior to 1980s, every resident who lived in Port Sunlight worked for Unilever, until the houses were sold privately. It is now a sought-after place to live and tourist destination.