GfK Retail and Technology History
Market Expansion
1970 Photo: e.g. Cameras, Lenses, Accessories
1971 Home Improvement/ DIY: e.g. Power Tools, Adhesives
1971 Household Equipment: e.g. Batteries, Furniture, Lamps
1972 Automotive Aftermarket: e.g. Tyres, Brake Pads
1973 Consumer Electronics: e.g. Televisions, MP3/4 Players
1976 Domestic Appliances: e.g. Toasters, Fridges
1983 Office Equipment: e.g. Printers, Ink Cartridges
1983 Telecommunication: e.g. Mobile Phones, Fax Machines
1983 Information Technology: e.g. PCs, Monitors
1983 Stationery: e.g. Paper, Labels, Writing Instruments
1990 Optics: e.g. Contact Lenses, Glasses, Cleaning Agents
1998 Entertainment: e.g. Software, Video Games
2002 Media: e.g. Books, DVDs
2004 Tourism: e.g. Destinations, Tour Operators, Car Rental
2007 Fashion: e.g. Watches, Clothing, Luggage, Accessories
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Professor Wilhelm Vershoven
GfK's founding father, Professor Wilhelm Vershofen, formulated the business idea of GfK in 1934.
Today this idea still represents the quintessential cornerstone on which the success of the market research company is based and that is: "Let the voice of the consumer be heard".
Find out more about the history of the GfK Group and Professor Vershofen: