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Co-owner Gunnar Heinemann with long-time Managing Director, now Chairman of the Advisory Board, Harry Diehl |
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“We never have the intention to sell.” – Claus Heinemann celebrates 125 years of independence and achievement |
GERMANY. At an elegant and poignant ceremony held at the magnificent Hamburg City Hall earlier today, Gebr Heinemann celebrated its 125th anniversary. Tonight celebrations will continue with a gala evening. Guests have flown in from all over the world to support and recognize the company.
The great commercial success and contribution of the German retailer and wholesaler to the City of Hamburg was honoured by Senator Gunnar Uldall, Head of the Department of Economy and Labour, Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. In front of a packed audience, Senator Uldall noted that three generations of the Heinemann family were present.
Describing Gebr Heinemann as one of the most successful retail and wholesale companies in the city and saying that the company logo was “familiar throughout the world”, he said to applause: “Hamburg is proud of Gebr Heinemann, congratulations to you.”
The Senator said that, in common with Hamburg, Gebr Heinemann had two pillars on which it was founded – shipping and aviation. He added of the company’s progress since 1999: “Travel Value is now as much part of the inner-European [travel] experience as duty free is to the international traveler.”
Replying, co-owner and director Claus Heinemann said: “We should be proud to be the duty free company with the longest tradition in the world.”
Underlining the philosophical spirit that has underpinned this 125-year success story, he said: “My cousin Gunnar and I have too much fun running this company and we never have the intention to sell. We believe in the concept of family companies.”
MORE STORIES ON GEBR HEINEMANN
Gebr Heinemann celebrates landmark in Hamburg – 01/11/04
Turkish delight for Gebr Heinemann’s Unifree as it wins new Antalya terminal contract- 12/08/04
Travel Retail Norway clinches Nordic duty free tender as SSP gains food & beverage prize – 24/06/04
Gebr Heinemann opens new logistics centre and celebrates Harry Diehl’s 70th birthday – 07/11/03
