OUR HISTORY
OUR HISTORY
More than 175 years of innovation and values
The Freudenberg Group looks back on an impressive history shaped by pioneering spirit, innovation, and responsibility. Since its founding in 1849 by Carl Johann Freudenberg in Weinheim, Freudenberg has grown from a tannery to a global company operating in numerous industries.
1849: THE BEGINNINGS
1849: THE BEGINNINGS
Quality as a foundation
It all began with the founding of Heintze & Freudenberg, a tannery that produced the finest calf leather. Even back then, the focus was on the highest quality—a principle that still shapes our corporate philosophy today.
1948: VILEDA
1948: VILEDA
The Start of a Successful Product
Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions began a bit later, in the 1940s: Two observant Freudenberg employees noticed that cleaning staff were using scraps of nonwoven material from production as cleaning rags. This material seemed ideal for wet cleaning. Dr. Carl Ludwig Nottebohm, a nonwoven fabric expert, picked up on the idea and, in 1948, developed the commercial window cleaning cloth Vileda, which was named for its resemblance to the German phrase “wie Leder” (meaning "like leather"), as it felt similarly smooth and durable.
1985: THE VILEDA MOP
1985: THE VILEDA MOP
Innovation in households
With the introduction of a complete floor mopping system consisting of a mop and bucket with a wringing system, we expanded our range and set new standards in household cleaning.
THE 2000s: GLOBAL EXPANSION
THE 2000s: GLOBAL EXPANSION
From America to Asia – we conquered new markets through strategic partnerships and acquisitions. These include entering the US market with the acquisition of O-Cedar® in 2003 and expanding our presence in India, China, and Southeast Asia.
2010s: REORGANIZATION OF HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS
2010s: REORGANIZATION OF HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS
A new chapter began with the renaming of the business group to Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions. Acquisitions such as Gimi (Italy) and Gala® (India) consolidated our market leadership and opened up new business areas.
TODAY: INNOVATION MEETS TRADITION
TODAY: INNOVATION MEETS TRADITION
Freudenberg stands for a harmonious combination of technical expertise and responsible action. For generations, we have driven innovation while preserving our values – a success story that makes us proud.
