A taste from the past.
A joy for the future.
What began in 1949 with a bold vision and handmade confectionery is now a successful family of brands throughout Europe. For over 75 years, Hosta has always thought one bite ahead and stands for quality and character. Our story is far from over – it’s just as worth looking forward as it is looking back!
1940s
The beginnings.
In 1949 – at a time when sweets were still being cooked over an open fire – Hermann Opferkuch founded Hosta with a vision and a tablet machine that he had borrowed from a pharmaceutical company. He delivered the first orange drops by motorbike in a backpack. The former site in Stimpfach-Randenweiler is still the heart of the now successful group of companies throughout Europe. Incidentally, this is also where the name comes from: Hosta is made up of Hermann Opferkuch and Stimpfach.
1950s
Sweet scent of upswing.
Hosta becomes an industrial company and the range grows to over 50 products. Uncle Tom, the predecessor of Mr. Tom, and nippon in its original bar form see the light of day.
1960s
Golden times and good business.
Hosta establishes itself as a top player in the confectionery industry. Investments totalling millions ensure the further development of the company, which now employs 250 people. In 1969, on the company’s 20th anniversary, Hosta is already one of Germany’s leading confectionery manufacturers and generates an annual turnover of DM 4 million.
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1970s
Iconic brands on the road to success.
Between disco fever and flower power, Hosta sets new standards. The unique ROMY Original with 23 % coconut content is born and nippon is given its characteristic snack shape, which is still popular today.
1980s
More room for big ideas.
At a time of technical innovations and colourful fashion trends, Hosta also continues to develop: a new administration building is built in Stimpfach and the production, storage and operating facilities are expanded.
1990s
Think globally, act regionally.
Hermann Opferkuch Junior takes over Hosta, expands internationally and modernises locally: with new production facilities in Europe and a computer-controlled high-bay warehouse in Stimpfach. Meanwhile, Mr. Tom cracks markets in 15 countries and nippon soars to the top of the confectionery market with a supported brand awareness level of 88 %.
2000s
Brand icons in the spotlight.
A penguin turns nippon into an icon in a TV advert and Hosta achieves sales of DM 545 million after the turn of the millennium. Modernisation and brand management go hand in hand.
2010s
Change with vision.
A new era begins for Hosta: in 2019, Laura Opferkuch takes over the company in the third generation and launches the “Hostafari” – a conscious and value-based change in which Hosta returns to its strong roots and gets fit for the future. Investments in state-of-the-art and automated production facilities optimise the manufacturing processes on site. The focus is on organisational development, innovation and strong brand communication – for example in the form of sponsorship of the “HAKRO Merlins” basketball team by nippon.
2020s
Show attitude, ensure quality.
Hosta shows attitude – with heart, humour, a strong mission statement and IFS certification at the highest level. Investments in the core brands and new brands as well as the modernisation of the headquarters in Stimpfach, including new common rooms, underline the future-oriented thinking. For four years in a row, nippon in particular has been recognised as a “Top Brand” by the Lebensmittel-Zeitung newspaper, a testament to the brand’s continued success.
2030s
A future to savour.
With a focus on snacking, new recipes and without compromising on flavour, Hosta is developing sweet ideas for a new era. Step by step, we are integrating sustainable processes from the inside out, with smart technologies supporting production and products. Diversity, quality and humanity remain – truly good flavours for a truly happy lifestyle.
Boldness and passion, coupled with the joy of constantly trying out new things, have always driven us.
