Henkel marks 150 years with “Future? Ready!” anniversary campaign highlighting innovation, responsibility and employee engagement

Henkel marks 150 years with “Future? Ready!” anniversary campaign highlighting innovation, responsibility and employee engagement

(IN BRIEF) Henkel will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026 under the motto “Future? Ready!”, marking a century and a half of transformation from a small German detergent producer into a global consumer and industrial goods group. The anniversary focuses on Henkel’s pioneering spirit, innovation and sense of responsibility, while also emphasizing confidence in the company’s future amid global challenges. Employees play a central role in the celebrations, with special benefits including enhanced participation in the employee share program and an additional vacation day. Global events throughout the year will culminate on the company’s founding day in September, alongside the release of an independent academic study documenting Henkel’s long-term development.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 19-Jan-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Henkel is marking a major milestone in its corporate history as it celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026 under the motto “Future? Ready!”. Founded on 26 September 1876 by Fritz Henkel, the company has evolved from a small detergent manufacturer into a global group operating in more than 70 countries with around 47,000 employees worldwide.

The anniversary theme reflects Henkel’s confidence in its ability to navigate ongoing global challenges, including geopolitical uncertainty, technological change and economic volatility. According to the company, the celebration places a strong emphasis on the values that have shaped its development over one and a half centuries: pioneering spirit, innovation and corporate responsibility.

Henkel’s Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board and Shareholders’ Committee, Dr. Simone Bagel-Trah, highlighted the importance of continuity and long-term responsibility as a family-owned business, pointing to the company’s commitment to employees, society and future generations. She emphasized that Henkel’s purpose — creating value and positive impact with an entrepreneurial mindset — remains central to its strategy as it looks ahead.

Chief Executive Officer Carsten Knobel said the anniversary year is intended to strengthen confidence in Henkel’s people, culture and innovative capabilities. Employees are placed at the center of the celebrations, with Henkel rolling out a series of tangible benefits and engagement initiatives throughout 2026.

As part of its employee share program, Henkel will offer a special anniversary incentive by topping up employee investments by 41 percent during the year. In addition, all employees worldwide will receive an extra day of vacation in their birthday month. These benefits will be complemented by local events and activities across Henkel sites globally, with the company’s founding day on 26 September set to be the focal point of the anniversary celebrations.

Alongside the festivities, Henkel is also highlighting its historical journey. From its origins in Aachen to becoming a global leader with brands such as Loctite, Persil and Schwarzkopf, the company today generates annual sales exceeding €21 billion. An independent academic study examining Henkel’s transformation over 150 years is scheduled for publication in early 2026, offering further insight into the company’s evolution.

Further information, images, and the digital Henkel History Timeline are available here.

Media Contact:

Kathrin Brokmeier
Henkel
Corporate Media Relations Headquarters,
Düsseldorf/Germany
+49-211-797-8605
press@henkel.com

Hanna Philipps
Henkel
Corporate Media Relations
Headquarters, Düsseldorf/Germany
+49-211-797-3626
press@henkel.com

SOURCE: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA