1935 — The Founding
Our company was founded in 1935 in Ramat Gan by a group of industrialists, including Martin Gahl, who immigrated to Israel from Germany. Since its establishment, the company’s history has been interwoven with the history of the State of Israel. The founding generation’s vision was to develop, manufacture, and market a broad range of Israeli-made cigarette brands tailored to the tastes of the Israeli public.
1960 — Management Transition and Stock Exchange Listing
In 1960, management of the company passed to Zerah Gahl, son of Martin. That same year, the company’s shares began trading on the stock exchange, making Dubek one of the first companies listed on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. This milestone reflects both the company’s growth and the trust it earned from the Israeli public and investment community.
1970 — Strategic Expansion and Market Leadership
In 1970, Zerah Gahl acquired competing Israeli cigarette manufacturers — Maspero and Matossian — a strategic move that not only strengthened the company’s position but paved the way for Dubek’s dominance in Israel’s tobacco industry and the broader Israeli economy.
1971 — International Reputation and Brand Growth
In 1971, our family-driven company gained international recognition thanks to its high production standards, uncompromising commitment to quality, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. Cigarette brands such as Nobles, Time, Nelson, Sheraton, Broadway, and Europa became widely popular, found in every pocket and bag.
1974 — Market Dominance and Business Expansion
By 1974, our company’s contribution to the country was evident to all. Dubek controlled approximately 96% of Israel’s cigarette market, with 60% of the tax from every pack sold transferred directly to the state treasury. During these years, we also expanded our operations — alongside cigarettes, we began marketing cigars, lighters, and additional complementary consumer products.
2003–2011 — Transition to Private Ownership and Business Growth
In 2003, our company became privately owned, while remaining faithful to the family legacy that defines it. The following year, the company became the exclusive marketer in Israel of products from the prestigious Danish company House of Prince, and in 2011 relocated its headquarters to the city of Petah Tikva.
2021 — Premium Brand Launches and Continued Renewal
True to our commitment to growth and innovation, in 2021 we launched two premium brands made from pure natural tobacco — Morrison, with a full and smooth flavor, and After, with a bolder, more robust taste. Throughout all our years of activity, our contribution to the community has been clear — and remains so today.
Dubek Today
Our company continues to build on its international reputation, earned through high production standards, an uncompromising pursuit of quality, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. Cigarette brands such as Nobles, Time, Nelson, Sheraton, Broadway, and Europa remain popular and widely recognized across Israel.
