About us
History
Our history
For over 95 years...
...we dedicate ourselves with passion and creativity to the development of premium flavors. But that doesn't mean we're stuck in the past. Quite the opposite. Our history has shown us that we can only move forward through a pioneering spirit, innovative strength, and adaptability. This is how we've become one of the leading companies in the market. And that's something we're particularly proud of.
Our history
From a family business to a global player
1931
Hamburg, port city, trading metropolis: In 1931, the Hamburg merchants Alfred Hertz and Carl Selck laid the foundation stone for one of the most famous tobacco flavor houses in the world. Their business area is essential oils, fruit concentrates and dried fruits for the food industry.
1957
The business remains in the family: Günther Hertz, cousin of founder Alfred Hertz, is a limited partner when Joachim Hertz - son of Alfred - also joins the company. During the German economic miracle, he systematically expanded the tobacco flavors sector, and the boom in the “American Blend” cigarette did the rest. Sales of tobacco flavors are now 20 percent. Founder Carl Selck is now retiring and emigrating to America.
1966
After nine years with the company, Joachim Hertz became managing director - and remained so until 1995. Sales of tobacco flavors now amounted to 90 percent.
1972 – 2005
Felix Schiffer becomes a limited partner and managing director until 2008. During this time, the next generation steps in: Jan Hertz, son of Günther Hertz, has been a limited partner and managing director since 2001; In 2005 Lutz Dörning became managing director.
2012
The move: Hertz & Selck's headquarters and production facilities are now located at Tarpenring 23 near the airport.
2013
A separate beverage division is set up.
2018
The new building to expand production at Tarpenring 23 begins. Hertz & Selck is now one of the most successful producers of premium flavors in the world - with 300 customers and exports to more than 60 countries on four continents.
2020
Managing Director Lutz Dörning is retiring after 15 years.
2021
To mark the company's 90th anniversary: Relaunch of the company logo including a new corporate identity.
In this context, the publication of the new claim: "WE FLAVOUR THE WORLD", which further emphasizes the internationality of Hertz & Selck.
2023
After 22 years, Jan Hertz is handing over his position as managing director to his successor Bianca Hinrichsen, who now leads the company.
2024
Peter Hertz takes on an active role at Hertz & Selck and assumes responsibility for the Human Resources department.
2025
Opening of a branch office in the Dubai Science Park Laboratory Complex in the United Arab Emirates. This location is the new hub for the Arab and Asian regions.
2025
A second location in Germany: the building complex at Nordportbogen No. 8 in Norderstedt marks a significant expansion of capacities. With this strategic decision, the company gains not only additional office space, but also new production and storage facilities.
These modern facilities are designed to increase production capacity in the future and thus best meet growing customer demands.
Our services
We can do that for you:
From tobacco to vaping to drinks: we create tailor-made, premium quality flavors for you. Do you want to modify your product? We know the requirements of the markets and respond to your wishes. Speaking of your wishes: If necessary, we will be happy to support you with additional services, such as a variety of product applications.
