Gerhardt is one of the best known names in the market and has a long standing presence in the industry. Founded in 1954 by Henning Gerhardt, the company initially began as an engraving business. But in the years that followed the company began to investigate other potential markets. By 1970 strong sales meant that it was necessary to relocate the business to larger premises and in 1972 Gerhardt Ltd was established in the UK.

By 1980 the expansion was continuing and Gerhardt Germany was created in 1980. In 1987 the Danish headquarters of the company relocated again, this time to a larger purpose built factory in Kastrup just outside Copenhagen. Throughout the 1990s the Gerhardt expansion continued with companies opening in Australia, Spain, Italy, Holland and the United States.