Company History

Aesculap AG and Downs Surgical

AESCULAP AG - Aesculap AG is based in Tuttlingen, Germany and can trace its origins back to the second half of the 19th century when a trained cutler named Gottfried Jetter gained valuable experience as a surgical mechanic.

In 1867, he founded his surgical instrument workshop in Tuttlingen, which at that time was known as the cutler's town. In 1889, the snake, staff and crown was adopted as the Company symbol and the name Aesculap began to earn its international reputation for quality surgical instruments.

Over the intervening years, the product range has widened to the point where Aesculap AG now describes its business as World wide Medical Technology. This is a fitting description for a company with manufacturing facilities in Germany, Malaysia and Spain; and, in addition, has business activities in many other countries throughout the world.

DOWNS SURGICAL - The origins of Downs Surgical can be traced to the mid-nineteenth century when a craftsman named Milikin was appointed surgical instrument maker to Guy's Hospital, London and worked in close collaboration with the surgeons.

In 1879, Arthur W Down, eldest son of Doctor George Down, went into partnership with Mr Milikin trading as Milikin and Down. Ultimately, Arthur Down bought Milikin's interest and two years later his brother, Hubert Down, joined the business which was renamed Down Bros.

Downs Bros made several manufacturing acquisitions. The largest of these in 1946 was Mayer and Phelps, who had been famous for ear nose and throat instruments since 1863. For the next 37 years the Company was known as Downs Bros, Mayer and Phelps. Lewis Bros who enjoyed an international reputation for neuro surgical instruments were acquired in 1960.

The Company was quoted on the London Stock exchange in 1972 and shortly afterwards the name was changed to Downs Surgical Limited. Smiths Industries PLC acquired Downs Surgical Limited in 1984. Four years later they relinquished ownership to Aesculap AG.