FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany – Nestlé is transferring its shares in Ankerkraut back to the founders of the spice company. The agreement with the founders, Anne and Stefan Lemcke, is based on a common understanding of Ankerkraut’s future needs and positioning. In view of the changed market situation, both sides are convinced that this decision gives the brand additional entrepreneurial leeway to drive the future development of the company even more flexibly and quickly.
“The cooperation has always been constructive, trusting and characterized by common goals. In this sense, we support the founders’ desire for greater entrepreneurial independence,” says Alexander von Maillot, CEO of Nestlé Germany. The decision is in line with Nestlé’s ongoing strategic transformation and brand focus, which aims to further sharpen and align the portfolio more clearly.
“Ankerkraut is more than a company for us – it is our life’s work,” say Anne and Stefan Lemcke. “We have learned a lot in recent years and would like to thank Nestlé for the constructive cooperation. Now we are looking forward to developing the brand ourselves again and opening a new chapter for Ankerkraut.”
Both parties emphasise their common interest in a smooth transition and in ensuring continuity for employees, business partners and customers.
Financial details of the transaction will not be disclosed.
About Ankerkraut
Ankerkraut GmbH was founded in Hamburg in 2013. The company employs around 160 people. The product range includes over 500 spices and spice blends, teas and accessories and does not require any artificial frills. The products are available online (Ankerkraut online shops, Amazon) as well as in food retailers and specialist retailers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland as well as in the Ankerkraut stores in Hamburg and Bochum.
