Nestlé to Return Ankerkraut Spice Brand to Founders

Nestlé Deutschland AG has reached an agreement to return the Ankerkraut spice brand to its founders, Anne and Stefan Lemcke. The decision stems from a shared understanding of Ankerkraut's future requirements and market positioning.

Both parties believe the transfer will grant the brand increased entrepreneurial flexibility to adapt to the evolving market landscape. Nestlé Germany CEO Alexander von Maillot stated that the cooperation was constructive and that Nestlé supports the founders' desire for greater independence. This aligns with Nestlé's strategy to refine its portfolio.

The founders, Anne and Stefan Lemcke, described Ankerkraut as their life's work and thanked Nestlé for the collaboration. They look forward to resuming independent development of the brand. Ankerkraut, founded in Hamburg in 2013, employs approximately 160 people and offers over 500 spices, spice blends, and teas.

The products are available through online channels, Ankerkraut's own stores in Hamburg and Bochum, and various retailers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Both Nestlé and the founders emphasized their commitment to a smooth transition for employees, business partners, and customers. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.