History and know-how
Reitzel has been a family business since 1909. It was successively managed by Hugo Reitzel, the founder, Franz and Charles Reitzel, his sons, then by Joseph Poupon until 1986 and then by his son Bernard Poupon. Today, the Reitzel company is managed by Olivier Camille.
Originally from Baden-Württemberg in Germany, Hugo Reitzel left his native region and settled in Lausanne.
At the age of 28, he created the company Reitzel & Cie and bought the property of Rochebord in Aigle, on which there was agricultural land and a mustard factory. He decided to continue the production of the famous Aigle mustard (known since the 18th century).
Hugo Reitzel met Aïda Frati, of Italian origin, when he arrived in Lausanne, Switzerland. They got married and had 4 children.
While the First World War was raging, the company began producing the famous gherkins and other vegetables (cauliflower, celery, carrots, onions, etc.), which were first grown on the estate and then purchased from farmers in the Rhône plain.
The Reitzel company specializes in pickled vegetables, which are initially made by hand. Aïda came up with the idea, inspired by the sott'aceti of Tuscany!
Hugo’s sons Charles and Franz take over leadership of the company, which becomes Reitzel Frères.
The company torch is handed over to Philippe Reitzel and Bernard Poupon.
Takeover of the Bésiers canning factory in Castelsarrasin (82) to launch the french business .
Acquisition of Guy Briand SA in Montrichard Val de Cher (41), which becomes Reitzel Briand. The company specializes in the manufacture and packaging of condiments in jars: the private label activity begins.
Creation of Reitzel India
Purchase of the Le Jardin d'Orante brand from Lesieur, with Marc Veyrat as ambassador. The products are sold in supermarkets.
Creation of Reitzel International to support the development of the group’s exporting activities
Takeover of the Christ company in Connerré (72). The company specializes in condiments and ready-made meals. Reitzel France launches its Food Service activity.
Reitzel relaunches the French gherkin.
Launch of the "Le cornichon français" range under Jardin d'Orantes with ingredients from local agriculture.
The organic range « Bravo Hugo » is launched.
Launch of HUGO in France, the flagship brand for French gherkins (Supermarkets & Food Service).
Reitzel France earns the PME+ label: the label for independent French companies on a human scale, with ethical and responsible practices.
Concerned about its environmental impact, Reitzel is launching its VIA (Very Important Actions) program in 2022 to achieve its 2030 objectives.
