I was fascinated by those things as a kid...it's interesting that the Zeppelin Co. is the manufacturer. They were (and still are) one of Germany's industrial giants, and they built the legendary airships of yore (including the Hindenburg).
The first airline (pre WW-One) flew airships in commercial service.
Also Boeing is currently involved in a joint-venture to develop a cargo-lift airship for use in remore areas, such as oil exploration.