Germany's food processing industry holds a vital position within the global market, encompassing a broad spectrum of operations from dairy and meat to snacks and convenience foods. Companies in this space take raw materials and transform them into packaged goods consumed daily. With a notable shift towards health-conscious products and environmentally sustainable practices, firms are adopting innovative methods to cater to evolving consumer preferences. The sector also emphasizes quality and safety standards, as companies adapt to rigorous regulations. As consumer behaviors continue to change, integration of technology to streamline processes becomes paramount, defining the industry's future.

The listed companies demonstrate a mix of large and mid-sized establishments, predominantly family-owned, that are headquartered across Germany. Founded between 1904 and 2011, their specializations span from meat processing and dairy manufacturing to frozen and convenience foods. Many of these companies, such as DMK and Hochland, are significant local employers and also export extensively. As they strive to innovate and maintain quality in their offerings, the industry reflects a commitment to both customer satisfaction and sustainability.

Continue reading to discover the top food processing companies in Germany.

Top 21 Food Processing Companies in Germany

1. Tönnies group of companies

• Website: toennies.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Mülheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: t%c3%b6nnies-holding-gmbh-co-kg

Tönnies Group of Companies, established in 1971 and based in Mülheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a family-owned enterprise that specializes in meat processing, particularly pork and beef. With a workforce exceeding 15,000 employees, Tönnies operates multiple business units, including convenience foods, sausages, and ingredients, catering to both businesses and consumers. The company emphasizes sustainability and animal welfare, implementing practices that ensure responsible food production. Tönnies has expanded its reach internationally, with operations in various countries and a significant portion of its products exported globally. Their commitment to high-quality food production and innovative practices positions them as a notable entity in the food processing industry.

2. DMK Deutsches Milchkontor GmbH

• Website: dmk.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Bremen, Bremen, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 92%, Netherlands 3%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: dmkgroup

DMK Deutsches Milchkontor GmbH, based in Bremen, Germany, is a prominent dairy manufacturer that processes approximately 5.5 billion kilograms of milk each year. Founded in 2011, the company has quickly established itself as a major player in the dairy industry, offering a wide array of products including cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. DMK serves both consumers and businesses, providing essential ingredients for various food applications. The company is deeply committed to sustainability, implementing initiatives like the Net Zero Farming project to reduce the carbon footprint of dairy production. DMK also emphasizes animal welfare and environmental stewardship, ensuring that their operations are responsible and forward-thinking. With a workforce of around 9,000 employees, DMK is not only a significant employer in the region but also a vital partner for approximately 4,400 dairy farmers who supply the raw materials for their products. Their brands, such as MILRAM and Oldenburger, are well-known in the market, further solidifying their position in the food processing sector.

3. Emsland Group

• Website: emsland-group.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Emlichheim, Lower Saxony, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 78%, Singapore 6%, Turkey 3%, Other 13%
• Founded year: 1928
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: emsland-group

Emsland Group, based in Emlichheim, Lower Saxony, Germany, is a private food manufacturer that has been operational since 1928. The company specializes in producing high-quality potato and pea-based products, catering to the needs of food manufacturers and animal feed producers. Their product range includes starches, flakes, granulates, and proteins derived from potatoes and peas, which are utilized in various food applications such as snacks, baked goods, and meat alternatives. Emsland Group emphasizes sustainability throughout its operations, from sourcing raw materials to product development. With a workforce of over 1,400 employees and a presence in more than 100 countries, the company is well-positioned in the global market, focusing on innovation and quality to meet the evolving demands of the food industry.

4. Intersnack Group

• Website: intersnackgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 61%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Czech Republic 6%, Other 26%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: intersnack-group

Intersnack Group GmbH & Co. KG is a snack food manufacturer based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Established in 1995, the company specializes in a wide array of savory snacks, including potato chips, nuts, and baked products. With a workforce of over 15,000 employees and operations in more than 30 countries, Intersnack serves millions of consumers daily. The company is known for its popular brands such as funny-frisch, Chio, and Hula Hoops. Intersnack emphasizes quality and sustainability in its production processes, aiming to deliver enjoyable snack options while minimizing environmental impact. Their commitment to social responsibility and employee welfare further underscores their role in the food processing industry.

5. iglo Deutschland

• Website: iglo.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: iglo-deutschland

Iglo Deutschland, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a private company founded in 2006. It operates as a manufacturer of frozen food, offering a range of products that include fish, vegetables, and plant-based alternatives. The company aims to provide convenient and nutritious meal options for consumers, reflecting a growing demand for quick yet healthy food solutions. Iglo Deutschland emphasizes sustainability in its production processes, striving to reduce its environmental impact while ensuring high-quality standards in its offerings. The company is fully operational in Germany, with a workforce of between 1,001 and 5,000 employees, and is part of the Nomad Foods group, which further supports its market presence and operational capabilities.

6. Schwarz Produktion

• Website: schwarz-produktion.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Falkenstein, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: schwarz-produktion-gmbh-co-kg

Schwarz Produktion, founded in 1998 and based in Falkenstein, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, is a private food manufacturer with a workforce of approximately 5,584 employees. The company specializes in producing high-quality food items, including beverages, baked goods, chocolate, and pasta. They cater primarily to retail companies, ensuring that their products meet the demands of consumers across various markets. Schwarz Produktion places a strong emphasis on sustainability, implementing practices such as PET recycling and sourcing sustainable raw materials. Their operations are characterized by modern production techniques and a commitment to quality, which has allowed them to maintain a significant presence in the food processing industry. The company has expanded its reach internationally, with production facilities now operating in the UK as of 2023. This growth reflects their ambition to adapt to market needs while prioritizing environmental responsibility.

7. Vossko GmbH & Co. KG

• Website: vossko.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Ostbevern, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: vossko-gmbh-%26-co-kg

Vossko GmbH & Co. KG, based in Ostbevern, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a family-owned food manufacturer specializing in frozen and chilled convenience products. Established in 1982, Vossko has grown to produce a wide range of meat and vegetarian options, serving both retail and food service sectors. The company emphasizes quality and safety, ensuring that their products are fully cooked, which enhances hygiene and meets customer expectations. Vossko operates primarily in Germany and has expanded its reach internationally, including a production facility in Brazil. Their active participation in industry trade fairs, such as Anuga, showcases their commitment to innovation and market presence. With a workforce of over 800 employees, Vossko is a significant employer in its region, reflecting its stability and growth in the food processing industry.

8. Abbelen GmbH

• Website: abbelen.de
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: April 2017
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: abbelen-gmbh

Abbelen GmbH, based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a meat processing company that specializes in the production of convenience food products. Established in 1958, Abbelen has carved out a significant niche in the market, focusing on items such as frikadellen, burgers, schnitzel, and chicken nuggets. The company serves both consumers and businesses, providing high-quality, easy-to-prepare meals that cater to the growing demand for convenience in food preparation. Abbelen emphasizes the use of premium ingredients and maintains rigorous quality control measures, ensuring that their products meet high safety and taste standards. With a workforce of around 690 employees, Abbelen has evolved from a small family-run business to a modern enterprise, adapting to industry trends and consumer preferences over the decades. Their commitment to sustainability and community support further enhances their profile in the food processing industry.

9. Bhj

• Website: bhj.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Altenholz, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Denmark 73%, United States (USA) 9%, Canada 6%, Other 11%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: bhj

BHJ, founded in 1969 and based in Altenholz, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is a private company that specializes in the production of pet food ingredients and solutions for the food industry. With a workforce of approximately 565 employees, BHJ operates on a global scale, serving clients primarily in the pet food and food processing sectors. Their product offerings include wet and dry pet food ingredients, processed animal proteins, and various logistics services. BHJ emphasizes sustainability and the effective use of raw materials, aiming to upgrade these materials to enhance value for their clients. Their operations span multiple countries, with a significant presence in Denmark, the United States, and Canada, among others. BHJ's commitment to quality assurance and supply chain control further solidifies their role in the food processing industry.

10. Hochland

• Website: hochland-group.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Heimenkirch, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 44%, Romania 18%, Poland 18%, Other 20%
• Founded year: 1927
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: hochland

Hochland SE, based in Heimenkirch, Bavaria, Germany, is a family-owned cheese manufacturer that specializes in processed cheese and cream cheese products. Established in 1927, Hochland has grown to become a prominent name in the European cheese market, supplying a variety of cheese products to supermarkets and retailers. The company operates production facilities in several countries, including Germany, Romania, Poland, Spain, and Russia, reflecting its international reach. Hochland emphasizes quality and sustainability in its operations, maintaining long-term partnerships with milk suppliers and implementing environmentally friendly practices. The company has also been proactive in adapting to market demands, ensuring a steady supply of cheese to meet consumer needs. With a workforce of over 5,000 employees, Hochland continues to play a vital role in the food processing industry, particularly in the cheese segment.

11. GETI WILBA GmbH

• Website: geti-wilba.de
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Guderhandviertel, Lower Saxony, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: May 2020
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: geti-wilba-gruppe

GETI WILBA GmbH, based in Guderhandviertel, Lower Saxony, Germany, is a food manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1952. The company specializes in poultry and plant-based products, catering primarily to the food service and processing industries. With a workforce of around 450 employees, GETI WILBA emphasizes high-quality, sustainable food solutions. They maintain rigorous quality control and transparency throughout their supply chain, ensuring that their products meet the highest standards. Their operations include a dedicated slaughterhouse and processing facilities in Germany and Austria, allowing them to oversee the entire production process from farm to fork. GETI WILBA also offers a range of convenience food solutions designed to meet the needs of professional kitchens, reflecting their understanding of the challenges faced by food service providers today. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their expansion into plant-based proteins, which are crafted from natural ingredients without unnecessary additives, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

12. Beneo

• Website: beneo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Belgium 53%, Germany 14%, Chile 12%, Other 20%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: beneo

Beneo, founded in 2007 and based in Mannheim, Germany, is a private company that specializes in food and nutrition solutions. With a workforce of approximately 663 employees, Beneo provides a variety of ingredients aimed at enhancing both human and animal nutrition. Their product range includes functional fibers, carbohydrates, specialty rice ingredients, and functional proteins, which are utilized in various applications such as bakery, beverages, dairy, and pet food. Beneo serves food manufacturers and animal feed producers, helping them meet the growing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable products. The company operates globally, with a significant presence in Belgium, Germany, and other countries, and emphasizes sustainability and innovation in its operations. Beneo also engages in pharmaceutical excipients, showcasing its versatility in the nutrition sector.

13. Rapunzel Naturkost

• Website: rapunzel.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Legau, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 50%, Turkey 50%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: rapunzel-naturkost-gmbh

Rapunzel Naturkost, based in Legau, Bavaria, Germany, is an organic food company that has been operational since 1974. With a workforce of around 501 to 1000 employees, the company specializes in a wide range of organic products, including snacks, baking ingredients, and beverages. Rapunzel places a strong emphasis on sustainability and fair trade, ensuring that their products not only meet high quality standards but also support ethical practices in agriculture. The company actively engages in various projects that promote ecological and social initiatives, contributing to a more sustainable food system. Their product offerings cater to both consumers and businesses, showcasing their versatility in the market. Rapunzel also operates a visitor center, enhancing community engagement and education about organic farming and food processing. Their commitment to quality and ethical sourcing positions them as a notable entity in the organic food sector.

14. Freiberger Lebensmittel GmbH

• Website: freiberger-pizza.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 92%, France 5%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: freiberger-lebensmittel-gmbh-%26-co-

Freiberger Lebensmittel GmbH, based in Berlin, Germany, is a family-owned food manufacturing company that specializes in the production of frozen and chilled food products. Established in 1976, Freiberger has grown from a small pizza delivery bakery into one of Europe's largest manufacturers of frozen pizzas, snacks, and pasta dishes. The company caters to retailers and food service providers worldwide, offering a wide array of products that are customized to suit local taste preferences. With a workforce of approximately 3,800 employees across 13 locations in Europe and the USA, Freiberger emphasizes quality and innovation in its operations. The company is known for its extensive recipe portfolio, boasting over 1,000 unique formulations. Freiberger's commitment to quality is reflected in its adherence to various industry standards and certifications, including ISO-45001 for workplace safety. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Südzucker AG since 1998, Freiberger has leveraged its parent company's resources to enhance its market position and operational capabilities.

15. Bempflinger Lebensmittel

• Website: bempflinger.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Altdorf Bei Nürnberg, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1948
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bempflinger-lebensmittel-gmbh

Bempflinger Lebensmittel GmbH, based in Altdorf Bei Nürnberg, Bavaria, Germany, is a family-owned food manufacturer with a history dating back to 1948. The company specializes in creating and producing private label products tailored for the retail sector, particularly focusing on sauces and ready meals. Bempflinger emphasizes innovation in its recipes, aligning with current food trends and consumer preferences. They offer co-packing services, which allows them to cater to various brands and retailers, enhancing their operational flexibility. With a workforce of approximately 150 employees, Bempflinger is committed to quality management and customer satisfaction, positioning itself as a reliable partner in the food processing industry.

16. Meica

• Website: meica.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Edewecht, Lower Saxony, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1908
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: meica

Meica Ammerländische Fleischwarenfabrik Fritz Meinen GmbH & Co. KG, based in Edewecht, Lower Saxony, Germany, is a private food manufacturer specializing in sausages and ready meals. Established in 1908, Meica has built a reputation for quality and tradition in sausage production. The company offers a wide array of products, including classic German sausages, vegetarian options, and convenient meal solutions. Meica is recognized for its brands such as Deutschländer and Curry King, which are popular in the German market. The company operates entirely within Germany and exports to around 30 countries, showcasing its international reach. Meica emphasizes sustainability in its operations, implementing energy management systems and engaging in community support initiatives. The company is committed to maintaining high standards in food safety and quality, ensuring that its products meet consumer expectations.

17. H&E Reinert Group

• Website: reinert.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Versmold, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Founded year: 1931
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: h%26e-reinert-group

H&E Reinert Group, also known as The Family Butchers, is a prominent meat producer based in Versmold, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Established in 1931, the company has built a reputation for its high-quality sausage and ham products. With a workforce of approximately 2,300 employees, they operate several production facilities dedicated to meeting the demands of the meat market. The company emphasizes quality, tradition, and sustainability in its operations, ensuring that their products not only meet consumer expectations but also adhere to modern standards of food safety and ethical sourcing. H&E Reinert Group serves both consumers and businesses, offering a range of meat products under various brands, including Reinert Bärchen and Reinert Sommerwurst. Their focus on innovation and adapting to market trends, such as the growing interest in plant-based alternatives, further solidifies their position in the food processing industry.

18. Delta Fleisch Handels GmbH

• Website: delta-hamburg.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: delta-fleisch

Delta Fleisch Handels GmbH, founded in 1989, is a private food supplier based in Hamburg, Germany. The company specializes in high-quality meat and a variety of food products aimed at the gastronomy sector, serving restaurants and catering services. Their product range includes not only meat but also fish, dairy, and delicacies, showcasing their ability to meet diverse culinary needs. Delta operates a production facility where they process and refine food products, ensuring that freshness and quality are maintained throughout the supply chain. The company prides itself on its strong relationships with suppliers and its ability to adapt to market trends, which allows them to offer seasonal and innovative products. Delta Fleisch is also committed to quality assurance, as evidenced by their certifications, including HACCP and Lacon Bio, which reflect their adherence to high food safety standards. With a dedicated team and a focus on customer satisfaction, Delta continues to play a significant role in the food processing industry.

19. Rothkötter Unternehmensgruppe

• Website: rothkoetter.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Meppen, Lower Saxony, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: rothk%c3%b6tter-unternehmensgruppe

Rothkötter Unternehmensgruppe, founded in 1969 and based in Meppen, Lower Saxony, Germany, is a family-owned company that specializes in food manufacturing, particularly in animal feed and poultry products. The company produces high-quality pig and chicken feed and processes chicken meat for both agricultural businesses and consumers. With several production facilities across Northern Germany, Rothkötter emphasizes quality and sustainability in its operations. The company operates three feed mills, a hatchery, and two chicken processing plants, showcasing a vertically integrated approach that ensures control over the entire production process. This integration allows them to monitor product quality from the breeding of parent animals to the final sale of processed chicken products. Rothkötter also runs retail outlets for direct consumer sales, further connecting their production to the market. Their commitment to innovation and responsiveness to market trends positions them as a significant player in the food processing sector.

20. Peter Mattfeld & Sohn GmbH

• Website: mattfeld.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: peter-mattfeld-%26-sohn-gmbh

Peter Mattfeld & Sohn GmbH, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a family-owned company that has been a significant player in the meat processing industry since its founding in 1950. The company specializes in providing fresh meat, convenience products, and a wide array of food items primarily to the gastronomy and catering sectors. With a focus on quality and customer service, they operate a Cash & Carry market that has been a staple for local businesses. Their in-house meat processing facility is capable of handling substantial volumes, processing up to 1,000 half pigs and 100 beef carcasses nightly. This operational capacity allows them to meet the demands of their clientele effectively. Additionally, they import high-quality meat from various countries, ensuring a broad selection of products under their own brand, matti's. Their long-standing presence and commitment to quality make them a noteworthy entity in the food processing sector.

21. Vortella Lebensmittelwerk GmbH

• Website: vortella.de
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Preußisch Oldendorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Founded year: 1904
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: vortella-lebensmittelwerk-gmbh

Vortella Lebensmittelwerk GmbH, based in Preußisch Oldendorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a family-owned food manufacturer that has been operational since 1904. The company specializes in the production of margarines and food fats, catering specifically to the food processing industry. Their product offerings are tailored to meet the unique requirements of various sectors, including baking, meat, fish, and delicatessen. Vortella prides itself on delivering high-quality products that are not only technically and tastefully aligned with customer needs but also adhere to the latest nutritional science. The company has established a reputation for flexibility and responsiveness, with in-house consultants and food technologists supporting clients from product conception to production. Vortella is also committed to sustainability, actively promoting the use of certified palm oil and offering a range of organic products sourced from controlled organic farming. Their certifications, including IFS and BRC, underscore their dedication to maintaining high standards in food safety and quality.

Food Processing Insights: Key Companies in Germany

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