In1924, 23-year-old Alfred Karcher completed his education and thereafter devoted
himself to the development of his own product ideas. By 1939 Karcher had moved his
company to Winnenden near Stutgardt, where the family enterprise still has its headquarters.
Throughout the 30’s and 40’s he designed and produced many innovations for industry.
Alfred Kärcher made his breakthrough into cleaning technology in 1950 with the development
of the first European hot-water pressure washer (the DS 350 steam blaster). Even
today, a half decade later, his original design still serves as the basis for burner
system technologies.
Sadly, Alfred Kärcher passed away on September 17th, 1959 at age 58. At that time,
his wife Irene assumed management of the organization and directed the fortunes
of the company for three decades thereafter. Her children Johannes Kärcher and Susanne
Zimmermann von Siefart, carry on the family enterprise today as the second succeeding
generation.
In 1962 Kärcher founded the first foreign subsidiary in France, followed by Austria
and Switzerland. The international growth consistently moved forward. In 1975 Kärcher
opened a factory in Brazil; within ten years the enterprise established 16 companies
in regions around the world including North America, Africa, and Australia. By 2008
Kärcher was represented in 41 countries. Today there are 40,000 outlets worldwide
insuring uninterrupted service to customers worldwide. [Read More]
Growth through innovation
By 1974 Kärcher concentrated on high-pressure cleaning after a period of product
diversification. At that time the c product color was changed from blue to what
has become the world-famous Kärcher yellow. In 1980 the company expanded it’s product
line to include general cleaning products, starting with segments such as transpiration
and building maintenance. The selection has gradually increased to include an outstanding
group of innovative feature-rich products such as wet and dry vacuum cleaners, sweepers,
scrubber dryers, car washing systems, steam cleaners, cleaning agents, drinking
water, and wastewater treatment plants.
Karcher North America, Industrial Division
In 2009 Karcher North America determined to market select products in the United
States focusing on industrial and large scale cleaning applications. Karcher Industrial
is staffed by specialists representing this unique group of products, they focus
on floor care and specialized cleaning challenges.
Kärcher, the worldwide market leader
Innovation continues to be the most important contributor to growth for Kärcher.
The worldwide leader in cleaning technology will continue to distinguish itself
in future with its inventive spirit, top-class performance and innovative solutions.