More than 400 international guests from media, industry and society accepted Henkel’s invitation to the large anniversary gala at the Wappenhalle in Munich and celebrated the 111th birthday of Schwarzkopf until the early hours of the morning. Top models such as Eva Padberg, Franziska Knuppe and Bojana Panic were among the glamorous guests that walked the red carpet. After the welcoming address by Hans Van Bylen, Executive Vice President Cosmetics/Body Care Henkel, Tina Müller, Corporate Senior Vice President, responsible for the worldwide hair, face and oral products business at Henkel, and Norbert Koll, Corporate Senior Vice President Schwarzkopf Professional, the guests let themselves be inspired by the 111-year long history and the numerous innovations of Schwarzkopf while enjoying cocktails and finger food. A large brand history exhibition showed not only the milestones from the past, but also the current new products and innovations of 2009. Video projections on the topic by media artist Dirk Bonn were met by enthusiasm from the audience and clearly set the international standard.

It was 111 years ago that the chemist Hans Schwarzkopf ran his small drugstore in Berlin. Today Schwarzkopf – one of the strongest brands of parent-company Henkel – handles with all products in the categories coloration, hair care and styling. Thanks to it’s extraordinary growth over the years, Schwarzkopf belongs to the market leaders. Alongside the retail brands (Schwarzkopf Retail) Schwarzkopf also includes professional products (Schwarzkopf Professional) in its brand portfolio. The company is dedicated to the development of innovative product technology and has up to now over 7,600 patents pending. With a finger on the pulse of innovation, Schwarzkopf has revolutionised the market with technical breakthroughs and innovations.

111 years ago, Hans Schwarzkopf laid the foundations for a brand name that to this day stands for quality, competence and innovation. The brand enjoys the greatest trust among hairdressers and consumers alike. Its market success is also due to a consistent focus on excellence. Over the past three years, Schwarzkopf has channeled its energies systematically into innovation. In 2008, Henkel’s strongestselling brand once again set historic market share records, making it Europe’s fastestgrowing hair cosmetics brand.

Profile of Hans Van Bylen, Executive Vice President Cosmetics & Toiletries, Henkel AG & Co KGaA