“A Fragrance from Cologne, a Brand of the World” – 4711 Wins “Packaging of the Year” 2025
4711 is not just a fragrance classic — it is an international design icon. For 230 years, the Eau de Cologne from Cologne’s Glockengasse has stood for innovation, brand strength, and timeless recognizability. Now, 4711 Original Eau de Cologne has been honored for this extraordinary design consistency: with the “Packaging of the Year” 2025 Award.
A Design That Made History — and Shapes the Future
The jury recognizes one thing above all: the courageous and consistent continuation of a historic design that has remained nearly unchanged for 205 years. The legendary Molanus bottle — developed in 1820 by Wilhelm Mülhens and distiller Peter Heinrich Molanus — revolutionized the industry: stable, iconic, and functional. It replaced traditional Rosoli phials and set new standards for branded fragrance bottles worldwide.


To this day, the hexagonal shape remains a visual statement — just like the unmistakable brand colors Bremen Blue and Gold, the ornate label design, and the red seal. 4711 understood early on what modern brand building means: clear signatures, strong recognition, and a holistic brand experience across generations.
A Fragrance That Defined a Category
4711 was not only a design pioneer — the signature Cologne accord created an entirely new fragrance category and made the light, refreshing Eau de Cologne globally popular. What began in Cologne quickly evolved into an international bestseller and still stands for quality, authenticity, and “made in Germany” fragrance culture.
Timelessly Modern: Why 4711 Is More Relevant Than Ever
In a world that constantly reinvents itself, 4711 proves that true icons don’t age — they endure. The brand’s visual consistency for more than two centuries is unique, making 4711 a prime example of how heritage, brand courage, and iconic design drive long-term brand success.
Awarded for the Courage to Stay True to the Brand
The jury is impressed by the uncompromising commitment to one of the world’s most influential fragrance designs — without shortcuts, without dilution. A classic with impact. A brand with direction. A packaging design that has stood for unmistakable identity for 205 years.
We are proud to receive the “Packaging of the Year” 2025 Award — a powerful acknowledgement of authentic brand design and the unmistakable character of 4711 Original Eau de Cologne.