After completing his training in 1928, Karl Storz moves to Leipzig, where he works closely with doctors to understand their needs.

In 1945, Karl Storz and his father establish the company bearing their name in a small workshop.

In a time of limited resources, Karl Storz aims not only to improve existing techniques but also to develop products that provide better insights into the human body and revolutionize surgery.

Unlike other instrument makers, Karl Storz seeks direct contact with the medical community. This is how he develops products that can still be found in our portfolio today.

From the very beginning, engaging with medical experts and maintaining an active presence at international conferences have been decisive factors in our success.

A special honor: On the company's 40th anniversary, Karl Storz receives an honorary doctorate in medicine for his innovative instruments and the exchange between medicine and technology.

In 1971, we founded our sales office in Los Angeles, marking the start of our global expansion. Today, the USA is our second largest location and our largest market.

On the 50th anniversary of the company in 1995, Karl Storz not only receives the German Federal Cross of Merit, but a street in Tuttlingen is named after him in recognition of his life's work.

After her father's death in 1996, Sybill Storz takes over the management. With passion and visionary flair, she drives the company's global expansion.

In 2016, Sybill Storz receives the "Pioneer in Surgical Endoscopy" Award, an honor her father received as the first recipient in 1995.

The largest investment in our company's history: We are currently expanding our logistics and production site in Neuhausen ob Eck, Germany – with a strong focus on sustainability perspective.

In the post-war period, Karl Storz starts manufacturing instruments for ENT medicine. With great assurance, he develops a binocular loupe that facilitates surgeries for middle ear deafness.

In 1960, we revolutionize medicine with his groundbreaking cold light source. It used fiber optics to provide intense light, enabling more presice diagnoses and new surgical techniques – a true breakthrough for the medical world.

In 1965, our founder lays another cornerstone for modern endoscopy with the first rod lens system, developed in collaboration with Harold H. Hopkins. While others overlook the potential, he recognizes the opportunities and successfully implements them.

In the 1980s, we specialize in rigid endoscopes for surgery and ENT. As we grow, flexible endoscopes follow. Today, we offer both types at an advanced level.

In 1999, we introduce the integrated operating room OR1, combining cutting-edge technology with surgical precision.

In 2011, we revolutionize surgical precision with our brand-new 3D camera system. From the first 3D to today's 4K images and AI-supported systems, this innovation redefines the limits of visibility and shapes the future of medicine.

At the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, our endoscopes assist the lead veterinarian in caring for the competition horses, contributing invisibly but crucially to the success of the Games.

Whether it's an elephant or a budgie, we develop precise endoscopes for all animals. Elephants are treated with endoscopes over a meter long, while miniature endoscopes are used for small birds.

In emergencies, our C-MAC® Video Laryngoscope is the key to success: As the winner of the 2017 German Innovation Award, it offers flexible application options and real-time documentation – perfect for intubations from preemies to adults. A game changer, and not just during the coronavirus pandemic.

A matter close to our heart: We create innovative products that support patients of all ages. Our portfolio of instruments from 2 to 5 mm is ideal for minimally invasive pediatric surgery – from newborns to adolescents.

Our endoscopes not only illuminated the human body but also NASA's Apollo spacecraft. We received a piece of the heat shield and a moon rock as a token of gratitude – symbols of the extraordinary achievement of crossing boundaries.

Karl-Christian Storz takes over the management in 2019, continuing the family legacy. He embodies the combination of tradition and innovation and drives the digitalization forward. Passion and independence continue to shape the company.

Karl-Christian Storz knows that the company's true strength lies in its people, our joint values and in cross-generational, sustainable thinking.

A reason to celebrate: Our global workforce now includes 100 nationalities. This diversity inspires creative solutions and strengthens our teams.

We have always stood not only for technological innovation but for social commitment: The KARL STORZ Foundation, established in 2023 by Sybill and Karl-Christian Storz, supports humanitarian projects and different initiatives at our headquarter and in developing countries. One highlight is the operation of the interactive TUTORAMA children`s museum in Tuttlingen to support STEM education.

Our employees make the difference: We are proud to employ more than 9,800 people in over 40 countries worldwide, with whom we share not only a passion for medical technology but also a unique #oneKS team spirit.

Since many years, we are the main sponsor of the Wild Wings, which play in the top German ice hockey league nearby our headquarter. The Storz family are passionate ice hockey fans themselves and can often be seen in the stadium – like many of our employees.