The Melitta Story

It all began in 1908 with one woman, a brass pot, and a sheet of paper. Melitta Bentz, frustrated by bitter grounds in her coffee cup, punched holes in a brass cup and lined it with a sheet of her son’s blotting paper. In that moment, the paper coffee filter was born. Her entrepreneurial spirit turned what started as a simple kitchen experiment into a coffee revolution that forever changed how coffee is brewed.

Over 100 years later, that same innovative spirit shapes everything we do.

We continue her legacy as we craft high-quality coffee filters, roast exceptional coffee, and collaborate with partners, all in the pursuit for better coffee, while protecting the planet for future generations.

Over 100 Years of Passion and Quality in Coffee

1908

Melitta Bentz invents the paper coffee filter, giving people a simpler way to brew a cleaner, better cup. Thus, changing the way we brew coffee.

1910

The first-round pour-over filter system is designed, making home brewing more consistent and easier to control.

1922

The distinct red and green packaging launches, helping consumers instantly recognize the Melitta brand and establishing a look that is still used today.

1932

A new brand logo is introduced, strengthening Melitta’s identity and brewing performance.

1937

The filter shape evolves again, setting the foundation for the modern paper filter design with its cone-style shape.

1938

Melitta reaches wider audiences with its first cinema advertisement, expanding awareness beyond the kitchen.

1954

Earthenware pour-over sets in soft colors become a staple in homes and a benchmark for thoughtful design.

1960

A lightweight plastic pour-over cone called the “quick filter” offers a durable, affordable option for everyday brewing.

1962

Melitta begins selling coffee, now providing consumers a complete brewing solution all from one brand.

1963

Melitta USA begins operations, making filters and coffee accessible to a rapidly growing American market.

1989

The 1st company to introduce Natural Brown® filters made from unbleached pulp, reflecting a shift toward more environmentally conscious products.

1992

Oxygen-cleansed paper process creates a cleaner, whiter filter without the use of chlorine.

1998

The Funkaffe brewer updates the pour-over experience with a modern interpretation of a classic method.

1999

Flavor Pores™ technology debuts, with microfine perforations allowing the full coffee flavor to filter through while maintaining clean filtration.

2002

As the industry leader and innovator Melitta’s Double Crimp technology is launched with the addition of a second safety crimp for added strength and durability.