History & Tradition

Our original recipe - perfected since 1850

Since 1850, Grether’s Pastilles have been crafted in Switzerland with the utmost care and attention to quality. Our collection of pastilles, including classic and sugar-free varieties, has been loved by singers, performers, and pastille enthusiasts for generations. Known for their rich flavors and soothing qualities, Grether’s Pastilles continue to combine tradition, craftsmanship, and care in every tin—making them a trusted companion for anyone who values their voice and well-being.

  • 1. The cornerstone of a long pastille tradition

    Grether's were first mentioned in 1850 and have a remarkable history. The pastille made from the juice of the blackcurrant has its roots in England in the 19th century. The London family business Allen & Hanbury Ltd. laid the foundations of a long pastille tradition that continues to this day.

  • 2. The characteristic gold tin

    The intense-tasting pastilles in the characteristic gold tin became increasingly popular and found their way to Switzerland around 1910. Even then, the soothing blackcurrant pastilles under the name "Allenburys" were indispensable when it came to a rough throat, hoarseness or a congested voice.

  • 3. Acquisition of the "Allenburys Pastilles" brand

    At the beginning of the 1930s, the Basel company Doetsch Grether AG secured the distribution rights and firmly established the traditional product on the Swiss market. With the complete takeover of the "Allenburys Pastilles" brand and the relocation of production to Switzerland, the brand was renamed "Grether's" in 1974, which also led to an adaptation of the logo and the can. The traditional manufacturing process with the gentle processing of selected natural raw materials is still maintained today. This also applies to all other flavours and the sugar-free varieties.

History

A golden journey through time - the story of a tin

As characteristic as Grether's soft pastilles are the gold tins in which the pastilles have been offered since the very beginning. Discover the over 150-year history here.

1850

First mention

Allenbury’s Pastilles were first mentioned. Manufactured by Allen & Hanbury Ltd. in London.

1850 Pastilles
1910

Golden era

Start of the golden era: The Allenbury’s Pastilles gold tin is becoming increasingly popular and is finding its way to Switzerland.

1910 Pastilles
1930

Swiss distribution rights

Doetsch Grether AG secures the distribution rights for Allenbury’s Pastilles.

1930 Pastilles
1974

Takeover of the brand

Doetsch Grether AG takes over the Allenbury's Pastilles brand completely and calls it Grether's Pastilles from now on. At the same time, production is relocated to Altnau on Lake Constance (CH).

1974 Pastilles
1983

New variety Redcurrant

A new variety is introduced into the market: Grether's Redcurrant Pastilles.

1983 Pastilles
1990

New light products

Allenbury's The 90s were characterized by sugar-free "light products". In the course of this "light movement", Grether's Blackcurrant Pastilles are also produced sugar-free for the first time.

1990 Pastilles
1994

New Redcurrant sugar-free

The sugar-free varieties are so well received that Grether's Redcurrant switches to to sugar-free.

1994 Pastilles
1996

Refill bags for the first time

In order to be able to use the beautiful gold tins for longer, Doetsch Grether launches practical refill bags on the market for the first time.

1996 Pastilles
2007

New variety Elderflower

The third variety is introduced, which quickly establishes itself on the market: Grether's Elderflower sugar-free with elderflower and lemon balm extracts

2007 Pastilles
2008

New packaging design

The Grether's Pastilles brand is getting a "facelift" with a slightly different packaging design - but without losing its roots.

2008 Pastilles
2011

New variety Blueberry

A fourth variety is added, continuing the tradition of soothing fruity pastilles: Grether's Blueberry sugar-free.

2011 Pastilles
2019

Limited Edition I

In collaboration with the Basel illustrator Patrizia Stalder, the first Limited Edition Blackcurrant sugar-free is launched in four traditional Swiss tins.

2019 Pastilles
2020

Limited Edition II

The success story continues. A second Limited Edition II Blackcurrant sugar-free is launched. This time, the focus is on famous Swiss places and their animal inhabitants.

2020 Pastilles
2021

Limited Edition III

Already a third Limited Edition III Blackcurrant sugar-free is launched. The focus is on the Swiss winter with four matching design motifs.

2021 Pastilles
2022

Limited Edition IV

The songs sound - and memories return: the Limited Edition IV Blackcurrant sugar-free in the traditional gold tin is available in retro design motifs inspired by four Swiss song classics

2022 Pastilles
2023

An icon reinvents itself

The iconic and distinctive Grether's Gold can received a new packaging design in early 2023. The range is presented in an updated and recognisable way under the shortened brand name "Grether's". The gold can as the centrepiece and brand ambassador remains unchanged.

2023 Pastilles
2023

Limited Edition Ginger Lemon

Ginger powder and lemon flavouring of natural origin provide for a unique intensity and freshness in taste.

2023 Pastilles

Blogs

Concentrated knowledge about Grether's

Useful tips & tricks for the health of your voice

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