Every innovation starts with an extraordinary idea. But an idea is only the first step. A leap forward in innovation requires more. It takes an idea that excites – the market, consumers, or our customers. The key to sustainable growth and prosperity are innovative products and technologies that address challenges, bring about change and and turn visions into reality. For Henkel, the development of such products and technologies has always been a central challenge and, at the same time, a key competitive factor.
INNOVATIONUnderstanding change, shaping the future
Innovation with purpose
Innovation at Henkel is driven by a clear purpose: to create solutions that make a meaningful difference for our customers, consumers, and the planet. We believe that innovation should be practical, forward-looking, and rooted in real needs – whether it’s improving product performance, enabling more sustainable choices, or making everyday life easier.
Company founder and pioneer Fritz Henkel laid the foundation for the company's success with ever-new ideas for innovative products, as well as entrepreneurial thinking and action. In its long history, Henkel has launched many pioneering inventions. Managing brands across generations takes a careful balance of tradition and innovation – a principle reflected in our purpose: “Pioneers at heart for the good of generations.” It reflects our commitment to improving lives every day through our pioneering spirit, expertise, and technologies.
We do not want to rest, because a rolling stone gathers no moss.
On the contrary: We want to do everything to further expand our company, both internally and externally.
Fritz Henkel, Company Founder (1916)
Across our business units, innovation drives progress where it matters most – whether it’s in Adhesive Technologies, where we develop adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings across more than 800 industries and everyday use, or in Consumer Brands, where we deliver iconic hair and home care products that respond swiftly to evolving consumer needs and trends. We co-create solutions with our customers and remain committed to shaping the future through impactful innovation.
Global innovation, local impact: Inside Henkel’s innovation network
To accelerate progress, Henkel relies on innovation hubs and a global ecosystem of innovation centers. Through open collaboration and trusting partnerships, we develop solutions along the entire value chain. Our global network of innovation centers is the ultimate launchpad for disruptive ideas, leveraging state-of-the-art technologies and artificial intelligence. AI helps us drive our innovations across Henkel’s business units, for example, by automating lab workflows in Adhesive Technologies, connecting global production sites, and enabling autonomous robots in manufacturing. In Consumer Brands, for example, AI enhances digital experiences through intelligent chatbots and personalized interactions.
Making history from the beginning: iconic products then and now
Laundry
Hair
Adhesives
1907
First self-acting detergent
In 1907, the launch of Persil revolutionized women’s labor in the laundry room. The first self-acting detergent made Henkel a leader in the German detergent market.
Today
most iconic brand
Today, Persil is one of our most iconic and widely recognized brands, available in more than 50 countries across a broad range of formats – from liquids and powders to gels and discs.
1903
revolutionary shampoo
Schwarzkopf has launched numerous innovations over the years: In 1903, Schwarzkopf unveiled a revolutionary shampoo in powder form that needed to be dissolved in water to use. In 1927, the brand launched the first liquid shampoo in Germany, making the hair-washing process even easier, by combining water and product in one step. And in 1955, the first hairspray was introduced.
Today
world’s leading brand
Today, Schwarzkopf is one of the world’s leading brands in the areas of hair color, styling, and care trusted by hairdressers and consumers.
1922
Production of first adhesives
Due to concerns about adhesive shortages expected as a result of World War I, Henkel decided to produce its own glue as a precaution. Starting in 1923, adhesives like Mala painter’s glue and Tapa wallpaper paste were also sold to neighboring companies.
Today
global leader
Today, Adhesive Technologies is the global leader in adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings, serving industrial customers, consumers, and craftsmen.
Laundry
1907
First self-acting detergent
In 1907, the launch of Persil revolutionized women’s labor in the laundry room. The first self-acting detergent made Henkel a leader in the German detergent market.
Today
most iconic brand
Today, Persil is one of our most iconic and widely recognized brands, available in more than 50 countries across a broad range of formats – from liquids and powders to gels and discs.
Hair
1903
revolutionary shampoo
Schwarzkopf has launched numerous innovations over the years: In 1903, Schwarzkopf unveiled a revolutionary shampoo in powder form that needed to be dissolved in water to use. In 1927, the brand launched the first liquid shampoo in Germany, making the hair-washing process even easier, by combining water and product in one step. And in 1955, the first hairspray was introduced.
Today
world’s leading brand
Today, Schwarzkopf is one of the world’s leading brands in the areas of hair color, styling, and care trusted by hairdressers and consumers.
Adhesives
1922
Production of first adhesives
Due to concerns about adhesive shortages expected as a result of World War I, Henkel decided to produce its own glue as a precaution. Starting in 1923, adhesives like Mala painter’s glue and Tapa wallpaper paste were also sold to neighboring companies.
Today
global leader
Today, Adhesive Technologies is the global leader in adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings, serving industrial customers, consumers, and craftsmen.
From purpose to innovation culture
Innovating is more than developing new products – it’s about fostering a culture where ideas can thrive. And a culture that is open and ready to explore new tools and technologies. Across teams and regions, we encourage curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Our innovation culture is built on empowering people to experiment, learn, and grow – always with the goal of creating solutions that make a real difference for our customers, consumers, and the environment. It’s this mindset that helps us stay agile, forward-thinking, and ready to shape what’s next.
Our purpose,
“Pioneers at heart for the good of generations”,
is more than a statement; it’s a mindset that shapes how we work, think, and innovate.
It guides our commitment to creating meaningful solutions that serve both current and future generations.
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