Energizer is a consumer goods company operating globally in the broad categories of household and personal care products. It became an independent, publicly held company in 2000 and is one of the world's largest manufacturers of dry cell batteries and flashlights. In 2003, Energizer acquired the Schick-Wilkinson Sword Company, adding its well-known brands in the personal care category to the Energizer portfolio. Energizer manufactures and sells batteries and flashlights in 150 countries, producing 6 billion battery cells annually, including miniature and rechargeable batteries and an extensive flashlight line. Its Schick and Wilkinson Sword brands of wet shave products is sold in more than 80 countries around the world, competing globally in all three segments of the wet shave category that include men's systems, women's systems and disposables. Energizer maintains a location in Asheboro, N.C.