An Idea From Germany Changes The World
People have been fascinated by water since the beginning of recorded time. Water has been seen as the
symbol of power and clarity, of movement and regeneration - indeed, of life itself. Today, this key source
of life is exposed to countless dangers. It becomes tainted with impurities that then have to be removed in
elaborate treatment plants. The exceptional responsibility for protecting our water sources is something we
must all shoulder. The definition of potable (or drinkable) water differs from one country to the next.
However, special subsequent processing enables it to be dramatically improved. In some parts of the world
what counts is optimizing waterÆs taste, whereas in others, it needs to be treated due to health concerns. In
1966, West German entrepreneur Heinz Hankammer was one of the first to recognize this. His inspiring
vision has made it possible for people throughout the world to dramatically improve the quality of their tap
water. It is safe to say that his life's work and his corporate philosophy have both been influenced in
countless aspects by the wisdom of water.
In 1966, Heinz Hankammer had the far-sighted vision of optimizing normal tap water with the simplest
means possible and developed a filter for producing completely desalinated water. The filter was the
AquaDeMat and is still used today in garages throughout Europe to produce distilled waters for car
batteries. Heinz affectionately named the original company after his daughter, BRITA. In fact, his entire
family helped him set up his small business, the first production being accomplished under a pear tree in
the familyÆs garden. Heinz Hankammer gave up his positions as managing director of BRITA GmbH and
took over as chairman of the supervisory board. á He passed over the responsibility to his son, Markus.
Today BRITA is the world market leader in freestanding...