On March 29th, Otto Greither, the esteemed head of the Salus Group (parent company for Floradix), will celebrate his 100th birthday. As the owner and managing director of Salus Haus for over 70 years, Otto has been a pioneer in sustainability, employee well-being, and nature conservation. Under his leadership, Salus Haus grew from a small company to a scientifically sound and sustainable group. Otto now serves as our top brand ambassador. As we honor this remarkable milestone, let's look back at some key moments in his extraordinary journey spanning over 70 years as the owner and managing director of the Salus Group.
Early Life and Leadership Beginnings
1925: Otto Greither was born in Munich, the first of two sons to Dr. Otto Greither and Therese Greither. His brother Hans followed two years later.
1945: At just 20 years old, Otto Greither took over the management of Salus. Despite not being legally recognized as an adult, he had his age of maturity notarized to assume leadership. Under challenging post-war conditions, Otto restarted tea production, famously trading 100 tea packs for a bag of cement needed for reconstruction.
Commitment to Quality and Expansion
1962: Otto Greither's dedication to product quality led to the establishment of an in-house laboratory and the hiring of the first pharmacist. This year also marked the expansion of the Floradix medicinal products factory, laying the foundation for a global success story.
1968: With the Munich premises bursting at the seams, Otto relocated to Bruckmühl, attracted by the site's hydropower plant, enabling sustainable and self-sufficient production.
Growth and International Presence
1979: Otto Greither expanded the Salus Group by acquiring Herbaria. The family business grew internationally, establishing subsidiaries in the UK, Spain, Italy, Chile, China, and Switzerland. Today, Salus exports to over 60 countries worldwide.
Overcoming Challenges and Recognitions
1986: After two devastating fires in the 70s and 80s, Otto Greither led the reconstruction of tea production. In gratitude for his employees' dedication, he invested in life insurance for each employee and compensated overtime generously.
1991: The acquisition of Schoenenberger, a leading plant factory, further solidified Salus Group's market leadership in the health food industry.
2008: Otto Greither received the Bavarian Order of Merit, adding to his accolades including the Federal Cross of Merit and the WWF's "Eco-manager of the Year" title for his environmental efforts.
Celebrating Legacy and Sustainability
2016: The 100th anniversary of Salus was celebrated with a grand event and the opening of the Salusteria organic canteen, a project dear to Otto's heart.
2025: Otto Greither celebrates his 100th birthday, embodying the spirit of sustainability and employee well-being. His leadership transformed Salus from a small company into a scientifically sound and sustainable group.
