Since 1946
Founded in 1946, Tapis Hertz quickly became one of Luxembourg's most emblematic family businesses.
Tapis Hertz is much more than a family story. It's a story of passionate people, a team that has always been dedicated and a unique know-how that has been handed down from generation to generation.
The beginnings
Rodolphe HERTZ came from a large family and began his career at BONN Frères.
After marrying Emilie Fichtler, a native of Colmar (France), he and his wife founded a furniture shop in Luxembourg under the name "CHAMPAGNE et HERTZ". A refugee in the USA during the Second World War, Rodolphe HERTZ earns his living there as a furniture salesman.
1946
On their return from the United States, Rodolphe and Emilie HERTZ opened a carpet and curtains business under the name "Rodolphe HERTZ" on the first floor of the building at 9, Grand'Rue in Luxembourg.
1948
"Rodolphe Hertz” moved to 34 Grand'Rue.
The 50s
1955
On 1 August, Danielle HERTZ joins her uncle's business as a secretary.
1959
Guy AACH, Danielle HERTZ's young fiancé, spent a few months learning the ropes of the Grand'Rue business before going off to work in specialist firms to perfect his knowledge of oriental carpets in Geneva and carpets and curtains, first in Stuttgart and then with Louis de Poortere, the largest carpet manufacturer in Europe.
After their marriage in 1960, Danielle and Guy AACH-HERTZ jointly managed the "Rodolphe HERTZ" company before buying out the business and becoming full owners of the company.
The 60s and 70s
1963
On 1 February, they took over ownership of the shop and set about expanding the range - especially of oriental rugs.
1965
They embark on their first "buying trip" to Iran and Afghanistan, selecting carpets from the craft centres for direct import. Since then, buying trips to the Orient and the selection of pieces at the production sites and exhibitions of carpets by style and origin have become part of the company's traditions.
Tapis-Hertz joins a company formed from members of the former Vetega-Gilde, and later becomes, for several years, "The Carpet Consulate", with the mission of safeguarding an important piece of the world's cultural heritage: the beautiful oriental carpet.
The 80s
1980
In view of the growing importance of permanent stocks, HERTZ Carpets opens a warehouse in Limpertsberg.
1981
The year of major changes: Tapis HERTZ moves to the corner of Grand'Rue and Rue des Capucins.
After several work placements in Germany, Joe AACH joins his parents in the family business. He remained there until his accidental death in May 1996.
1989
Closure of the Limpertsberg shop and opening of a large "sales and depot hall" at 259, route de Luxembourg in Helfent-Bertrange.
The 90s
1994
After her studies in Paris - BTS in “action commerciale” and a diploma in interior design - Nathalie AACH joins her parents to strengthen the family business.
1996
To mark its jubilee, Tapis HERTZ enlarged its sales area by adding an annex to a neighbouring house and restoring the premises of the former KIOES hat shop - 11, rue des Capucins - while preserving the beautiful original setting.
Since the accession of H.R.H. the Grand Duke Henri, Tapis HERTZ has been awarded the title of Court Supplier.
The years 2000
2002
In February, Tapis HERTZ renovates the ground floor to make it more modern, airy and welcoming.
2003
Nathalie AACH becomes Managing Director alongside her parents.
The 2010s
2012
In August, it was decided to leave the rue des Capucins and reorganise the head office by making several alterations.
2013
In May, a new milestone was reached with the opening of a 270 m2 shop in the southern extension of the La Belle Etoile shopping centre.
In October, Danielle and Guy AACH retire after more than 55 years with the company.
2019
In mid-November, the parent company leaves the Grand'Rue after 73 years to continue its history under a different constellation, but always with the same concern for the quality of the service and offer provided to its customers.
The 2020s
2020
At the end of March, 15 days after the start of the lockdown, Tapis Hertz goes online with its new sales website tapishertz.lu to ensure ongoing contact with its customers.
2021
Tapis Hertz, which has since changed its logo to Hertz, celebrates its 75th anniversary.
2024
In September, Tapis Hertz closes its last retail shop, located in the south wing of La Belle Etoile. Liquidation begins at the beginning of May.
However, the story is not over yet, as the name 'Tapis Hertz' and the curtain and rug departments, along with the people attached to them, will be taken over by “de Buedemleër” family business in Ehlerange, which shares the same values as Tapis Hertz.