On Monday, January 19th, 2026, global company Henkel celebrated its 150th anniversary with the theme “Future? Ready!”. The company, founded by Fritz Henkel in 1876, has grown into a powerhouse with 47,000 employees across 70 countries.
The anniversary year will be marked by initiatives and events worldwide, highlighting Henkel’s pioneering spirit, innovation, and commitment to responsibility. The company’s success has been achieved despite challenges such as geopolitical tensions, technological transformation, and market volatility.
Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board and Shareholders’ Committee of Henkel, Dr. Simone Bagel-Trah, expressed her pride in the company’s history and its impact on society. “As a family-owned company, we bear responsibility towards our employees, society, and future generations. We are proud of how our employees around the world continue to bring the shared Henkel spirit to life and carry it forward every day.”
Henkel CEO Carsten Knobel emphasized the role of employees in the company’s success and their involvement in the anniversary celebrations. “Under the motto ‘Future? Ready!’, we are entering our anniversary year – a year in which we look back with great pride on our long history and, at the same time, look ahead with confidence to the path ahead of us.”
To show appreciation for its employees, Henkel will offer an exclusive benefit for participants in its employee share program. The company will top up every employee investment by 41 percent, providing stronger participation in Henkel’s business success. Additionally, all employees worldwide will receive an extra day of vacation in their birthday month during the anniversary year.
September 26th, the company’s founding day, will be the highlight of the anniversary celebrations, with special activities and events taking place at Henkel sites around the world.
From a small detergent manufacturer in Aachen, Germany, to a global company with leading market positions, Henkel has come a long way in its 150-year history. The company’s annual sales now exceed 21 billion euros, with its three strongest brands being Loctite, Persil, and Schwarzkopf. To commemorate its history, an independent study by Prof. Dr. Joachim Scholtyseck, “Henkel – From a detergent manufacturer to a global company,” will be released in January 2026.
For further information, images, and the digital Henkel History Timeline, please visit https://www.henkel.com/press-and-media/facts-and-figures/150-years-of-henkel.
About Henkel:
Henkel is a global company with leading market positions in the industrial and consumer businesses. Its Adhesive Technologies business unit is the worldwide leader in the market for adhesives, sealants, and coatings. With Consumer Brands, the company holds leading positions in laundry & home care and hair in many markets and categories worldwide. Sustainability is a key focus for Henkel, with specific targets and a clear strategy in place. Founded in 1876, the company employs approximately 47,000 people worldwide and has a strong corporate culture, shared values, and a common purpose: “Pioneers at heart for the good of generations.” More information is available at www.henkel.com.
Media Contact:
Kathrin Brokmeier
+49 211-797-8605
kathrin.brokmeier@henkel.com
Hanna Philipps
+49 211-797-3626
hanna.philipps@henkel.com
