history_cotton towel_cws_service car

Our history

Since its founding in Switzerland in 1954, CWS has been a key player in hygiene solutions. From the introduction of towel dispensers in Europe, revolutionising washroom hygiene, to the 'Cleanseat' toilet seat, CWS has shaped washroom hygiene over the last seven decades.

Proud on our heritage

Over the years, CWS has introduced a number of ground-breaking innovations, including the world's first electronic towel dispenser in 1976 and the 'Cleanseat' toilet seat, establishing itself as a leader in washroom hygiene technology.

Milestones

Hygiene matters - since 1954

2023

CWS Hygiene SoMe Logo

CWS Hygiene
Divisionalisation enables hygiene to operate as an independent business.

2019

Dreieich

CWS 
All activities are placed under the international brand CWS.

2017

Joint Venture

Joint Venture 
CWS and Initial launch their joint venture.

2008

cws-boco service car history 2008

CWS-boco
The company HTS is renamed into CWS-boco.

1998

HTS International

HTS
The brands CWS & boco, both owned by Haniel, become HTS.

1981

haniel

Haniel

Haniel takes over CWS from the family estate.

1970

dustcontrol mats cws

Mats

CWS launches into rental service with dirt trapping mats.

1968

soap_history_1968

Soap Dispenser

CWS sets hygiene standards with soap dispensers for industry.

1958

der erste CWS Handtuchspender

Cotton towel

Founding of CWS Germany. European market launch of the first CWS cotton towel dispenser.

1954

Gründung CWS

Foundation

Conrad Wolfgang Schnyder founds CWS together with his wife Erika Schnyder in Switzerland.