Family-run and future-oriented

The history of Bruhn Spedition began in 1898 when the mariner Karl Bruhn founded the company. Originally, goods were transported with horse and cart, but the firm quickly recognized the advantages of modern technology. In the 1960s, Dieter Bruhn, representative of the 4th family generation, moved the company headquarters to Lübeck, which facilitated access to the Nordic and Baltic markets. "Our roots are deeply anchored in maritime tradition, but we have always looked forward and adapted to new conditions such as Ro/Ro connections," says Gert Laurijssens, Managing Director of Bruhn Spedition GmbH. A crucial turning point was the connection to the paper industry in Scandinavia and Finland, which led to the development of an innovative system for the transportation of bulk products. This business sector today constitutes a significant portion of Bruhn Spedition's activities. The expansion of the company continued in 1989 with the establishment of a branch in Antwerp, a strategically important logistics hub for the Benelux countries and the Ruhr area.

Sustainability and Modern Technologies

In 2020, the owner Dieter Bruhn acquired a property at Skandinavienkai and constructed a modern office building with an adjacent warehouse. Emily Paula Bruhn, responsible for Marketing and HR, emphasizes the importance of sustainable construction: "We have installed an air source heat pump and PV systems that allow for substantial self-sufficiency." These measures highlight the responsible handling of resources. This includes integrated cooling and heating ceilings, as well as a green roof. "Our forklifts and electric vehicles are powered by the PV system, which is environmentally friendly and cost-effective," explains Emily Paula Bruhn. Bruhn Spedition also embraced digitalization early on. "Our drivers are integrated into our system via an app and the accounting is highly digitalized," elaborates Gert Laurijssens. The use of artificial intelligence for optimizing routes and cost calculations is being thoroughly evaluated. A central part of digitalization is the integration of Big Data into the business processes. 

People at the Center

A main success factor of the company is the familial corporate culture. "As a family business, people are treated as individuals," emphasizes Gert Laurijssens. This culture promotes long-term employee loyalty and carries forward the values of the company. Emily Paula Bruhn adds: "Working in a family-run business that has been managed by one’s own family for generations is something special. Continuity and commitment to innovation and sustainability are our keys to success."

Challenges and Future Plans

The logistics industry faces numerous challenges, including acute driver shortages and the need to find sustainable transportation solutions. Gert Laurijssens sees Bruhn Spedition well-prepared: "We are set up intermodally, mainly utilize rail and shipping solutions, and advocate for alternative fuels." Diversification over the past years, especially in the area of liquid and bulk transport, provides new growth opportunities for the company. Another focus is on contract logistics and the expansion of the LTL business (Less than Truckload), particularly at the Luebeck location. "We want to make Luebeck our central hub for the Nordic and Baltic countries," explains Gert Laurijssens. "Our new office building and warehouse are important elements to further enhance our services."
With a clear focus on quality, sustainability, and digitalization, Bruhn Spedition looks optimistically toward the future. "We will continue to play a convincing role in the logistics sector in the years to come," says Gert Laurijssens. The company shows that the challenges of the logistics industry can be mastered through tradition, innovation, and sustainability. This innovative strength and the willingness to invest in new business areas have helped Bruhn Spedition to successfully maintain its market position. With a committed team and clear strategic focus, the company is well-prepared to succeed in the future.