Tradition and Innovation
Interview with Christoph Canibol, Managing Director of Flechtorfer Mühle Walter Thönebe GmbH
Located as a watermill at the Schunter, the Flechtorfer Mühle is already documented in the 13th century. Today, Flechtorfer Mühle Walter Thönebe GmbH is one of the eight largest mills in Germany and has modern equipment. In an interview with Wirtschaftsforum, Managing Director Christoph Canibol explains how the company successfully combines tradition and modernity.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Canibol, can you tell us something about the history of Flechtorfer Mühle?
Christoph Canibol: The history of Flechtorfer Mühle dates back to the 13th century when it was founded as a water mill. Over the centuries, the mill has undergone many changes. A significant turning point was a fire in 1928, which heavily burdened the owning family at the time and ultimately led to its closure. The Thönebe family, who have been running the mill since 1932, have continuously expanded and modernized it. In the 1970s, a new mill building was constructed, which still defines the appearance of the mill today. Diversification was another important step in the mill's history. While our competitors often focus on a smaller product portfolio, Flechtorfer Mühle decided to greatly diversify its product offerings. In addition to acquiring or developing an oat mill and an organic mill, many refined flour-based products are also offered.
Wirtschaftsforum: What products does the mill produce today?
Christoph Canibol: Our main products are wheat and rye flour, but we have greatly diversified our product range over the years. In addition to classic flours, we also produce special baking mixes tailored to the needs of our customers. An innovative product we offer are shake bottles for pancake mixes. They are very popular with our customers as they allow for quick and easy preparation and are ideal for a modern lifestyle. We also produce oatmeal, which is made by crushing oat grains, as well as various flours from spelt and other grains.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you ensure that your products meet the high standards of the industry?
Christoph Canibol: The requirements of our customers are indeed very high. To meet them, we rely on cutting-edge technology and precise production control. Our mill is equipped with advanced machines that allow for constant monitoring and adjustment of production processes. We use various silos to store and optimally blend different types of wheat. This enables us to ensure that the flour has the desired properties. Another important aspect is quality assurance. The flour must behave exactly right at the micro level to meet the requirements of industrial bakeries. Our customers expect consistent quality and we must ensure that we can meet these expectations.
Wirtschaftsforum: What are the long-term strategies of the mill?
Christoph Canibol: Our long-term strategy is based on solid diversification and continuous adaptation to market needs. Over the past decades, we have taken over or expanded mills. This has allowed us to respond flexibly to the changing requirements of our customers. In addition, we place great emphasis on sustainability and the development of environmentally friendly packaging. We are aware of the challenges the industry presents, particularly in terms of consumer price sensitivity. Therefore, it is important that we not only offer high-quality products but also maintain competitive prices. Our investments in modern technologies and processes help us operate more efficiently and reduce costs.
Wirtschaftsforum: What role do traditional values play in your company?
Christoph Canibol: Tradition plays a central role for us. We are proud of our history and the values that have accompanied us for centuries. At the same time, we are aware that we need to adapt to modern market requirements. Therefore, we combine traditional practices with innovative technologies. Our employees are an important part of this tradition; many of them have worked in the mill for several generations. The company culture is strongly influenced by family values. We see ourselves not only as an employer but also as part of the community. This is evident, for example, in our regular events, such as the harvest festival or open days, which strengthen our connection to the region and our customers.
Wirtschaftsforum: What does the future look like for Flechtorfer Mühle?
Christoph Canibol: Our future will be shaped by innovation and sustainability. We are working on new products and packaging solutions to reduce the ecological footprint of our company. We will also continue to invest in state-of-the-art technologies.