In 2026, Henkel is celebrating a significant milestone: its 150th anniversary. Founded by Fritz Henkel on 26 September 1876, the company has grown from a small detergent manufacturer into a global powerhouse with around 47,000 employees in over 70 countries. Henkel’s 150th anniversary is being marked under the motto “Future? Ready!” reflecting the company’s confidence in its ongoing success, even amidst geopolitical tensions, technological transformations, and economic challenges.
A Pioneering Spirit Drives Henkel Forward
As Henkel enters its anniversary year, the company is reaffirming its commitment to innovation, responsibility, and a pioneering spirit. Dr. Simone Bagel-Trah, Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board and Shareholders’ Committee of Henkel, remarked, “150 years mark an important milestone in Henkel’s history. They stand for continuity, a pioneering spirit, and the courage to constantly rethink the status quo.” Henkel’s long-standing legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship has helped it navigate changing global markets while remaining true to its values.
Henkel’s purpose – “Pioneers at heart for the good of generations” – is built upon the foundation laid by its founder, Fritz Henkel. The company’s journey began with the introduction of Henkel’s Bleich-Soda (bleaching soda) in 1878 and the invention of the first self-acting detergent, Persil, in 1907. Today, Henkel is known for its leading brands, including Loctite, Persil, and Schwarzkopf, and generates annual sales of over €21 billion.
Employee-Centric Anniversary Celebrations
Henkel’s anniversary celebrations are centered around its most valuable asset – its employees. As a family-owned company, Henkel believes in shared success. Carsten Knobel, CEO of Henkel, expressed, “With this special anniversary, we want to reaffirm our confidence in our capabilities, our people, our innovative strength, and our corporate culture.” Employees worldwide will be engaged in various activities throughout the year, especially on Henkel Day, celebrated on 26 September, the company’s founding day.
To recognise the invaluable contributions of its workforce, Henkel will offer special employee benefits in 2026. All employees will receive an additional day of vacation in their birthday month, as a token of appreciation. Henkel is also enhancing its employee share program, offering an exclusive anniversary benefit. For every €100 invested in Henkel shares, employees will receive shares worth €141, an increase of 41% over the usual top-up. This initiative underscores Henkel’s commitment to giving employees a stake in the company’s continued success.
Henkel’s Vision for the Future
The anniversary celebrations are not just about the past; they are about looking forward to what lies ahead. Under the theme “Future? Ready!”, Henkel is embracing digital transformation, sustainability, and technological innovation as central drivers of future growth. The company’s focus remains on pioneering solutions that address global challenges, while enhancing its market positions.
Henkel’s long-term strategy is rooted in its corporate culture, which combines a commitment to sustainable growth with a responsibility to society and future generations. This year, Henkel will continue to prioritise sustainability in its operations, focusing on circular economy principles, reducing carbon emissions, and creating value for customers, employees, and shareholders alike.
A Global Celebration of Innovation and Tradition
Henkel’s 150th anniversary is marked by celebrations at Henkel sites worldwide. In addition to the special shareholder benefits, there will be a range of events and activities to connect the company’s rich history with its forward-looking goals. Special ceremonies will take place at Henkel locations across the globe, bringing employees together to celebrate the company’s history while focusing on the exciting opportunities ahead.
Henkel’s global presence ensures that its anniversary will be a collective celebration that brings together its diverse workforce, partners, and customers. The festivities are designed to engage people from all corners of the globe, with local events aligned to Henkel’s values of collaboration and innovation.
A Company Built on Tradition and Innovation
Henkel’s legacy of quality and innovation is deeply embedded in its corporate DNA. Over the decades, Henkel has successfully navigated through global changes, from the rise of industrialisation to the digital revolution. The company’s pioneering mindset has remained a key driver of success.
Looking back on its 150-year journey, Henkel can take pride in its many achievements, including:
- The creation of the first self-acting detergent, Persil, which revolutionised the cleaning industry.
- The expansion into new markets and products, solidifying Henkel’s position as a global leader in consumer goods and industrial solutions.
- Its ongoing focus on sustainability, where it has made significant strides in reducing environmental impact while maintaining market leadership.
Looking to the Future: Henkel’s 150-Year Legacy
Henkel’s anniversary is not just about reflecting on the past, but actively shaping the future. The company’s continuous commitment to innovation is evident in its products, services, and operations. Henkel aims to keep pushing boundaries, offering cutting-edge solutions while addressing critical global issues like climate change and resource efficiency.
As Henkel embarks on its 150th anniversary year, the company’s focus remains on remaining “Future? Ready!” in all aspects of its business, ensuring it stays at the forefront of technological advances, customer needs, and environmental responsibility.
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