Hempel A/S celebrates 75-year anniversary of its owner, the Hempel Foundation

Hempel A/S celebrates 75-year anniversary of its owner, the Hempel Foundation © Hempel

In 1948, founder of Hempel A/S, J.C. Hempel, founded the Hempel Foundation to secure the long-term growth and development of his company and to give back to society.

On 30 November 2023, over 7,500 Hempel colleagues around the world celebrate 75 years of the Hempel Foundation. The Hempel Foundation was founded in 1948 by J.C. Hempel, who wanted to secure the future development of his company, Hempel A/S, and give back to society.

With a mission of making a positive impact in the world, the Hempel Foundation drives change on some of the world's most pressing issues. Last year alone, the Foundation spent €21 million on philanthropic work, in the areas of Education, Biodiversity and Science.

"By working at Hempel, all colleagues contribute to the work of the Hempel Foundation through their daily work," says Michael Hansen, Group President and CEO of Hempel A/S. "The Foundation's work is a great source of pride and inspiration for all of us at Hempel. It shows us that we can make a difference by doing what we do best: deliver trusted solutions that protect assets, beautify spaces and enhance lives."

The Hempel Foundation typically receives annual dividends from Hempel A/S. Historically, this has been around half of the net profit after taxes generated by the company. In 2022, this equated to approximately €3000 each from everyone working at Hempel.

Greater aims for a brighter future

The Hempel Foundation works on accelerating change worldwide within Education, Biodiversity and Science.

• By 2030, the Foundation aims to reach 1 million children in low-income countries with quality basic education.
• Working with global conservation partners, the Foundation aims to protect 5 million hectares of the most vital tropical forests by 2030.
• The Foundation has laid grounds for a world-leading education, research and innovation centre at the Technical University of Denmark to make coatings and surface protection more effective and sustainable.

Every year, a group of Hempel colleagues are invited to join an "iWitness tour" to experience the global work of the Hempel Foundation first-hand. Previous years' destinations include Rwanda, Uganda and Indonesia. Hempel colleagues of all backgrounds and across locations are invited to apply and learn more about the Hempel Foundation and its projects.