Which German retailer introduced the dm drugstore chain in Karlsruhe in 1973?

dm-drogerie markt introduced its drugstore chain in Karlsruhe, Germany, in 1973.

Götz Werner founded dm after a dispute over the direction of a family wholesale business. The first dm store opened in Karlsruhe, establishing a retailer focused on personal care, household goods and related everyday products.

The company’s name is an abbreviation of “Drogerie Markt,” meaning drugstore market in German. In English-speaking contexts, dm is sometimes confused with a pharmacy chain, but German drugstores traditionally sell cosmetics, toiletries, household products and some health-related goods.

dm expanded beyond Germany into several European markets. It became known for private-label products, a strong store culture and a customer-focused approach distinct from conventional pharmacies.