Passing the Torch

Wirtschaftsforum: Ms. Remagen, you and your sister Nane Remagen-Ziech lead Hardy REMAGEN GmbH & Co. KG. What roles do each of you play in the company?

Nina Remagen: Together, we represent the 10th generation of our family business. For the first time in the company's long history, two women are at the helm. I oversee the commercial sector, while my sister manages production. She has completed her training as a butcher and her master craftsman's diploma, whereas I learned the commercial side. This way, we complement each other perfectly.

Wirtschaftsforum: Your company has a remarkable history. Can you provide us with a brief overview?

Nina Remagen: The company was founded in 1718 in Cologne as a small butcher shop. The location remained in Cologne for many generations. In 1977, my grandfather acquired the site in Hürth, where we still produce today. At that time, we started supplying snack bars, which marked the step towards industrial production. Another milestone was in 2015 when we took over the Farmhaus brand, which we fully integrated into Hürth in 2019.

Wirtschaftsforum: What does your business look like today?

Nina Remagen: We employ around 220 people, generate about 70 million EUR in annual sales, and produce 70 tonnes of food daily. Our range includes everything from sausages and meatballs to meal components for the catering industry. With Farmhaus, we can cook gastronomes' individual recipes in consistent quality, from appetizers to desserts.

Wirtschaftsforum: Many people probably know your products without realizing it. Under what brand are you present in retail?

Nina Remagen: We have two pillars: On one hand, we sell products under our own name; on the other, we manufacture according to customer specifications under their label. Restaurateurs or retail chains contribute their recipes, and we produce precisely to fit – also in batch sizes suitable for mid-sized customers. Regionally, we are strongly represented in Rewe and Edeka markets, and nationally we supply Rewe hot counters. We are also present in many Aldi and Lidl markets. Moreover, we export to England and also supply to Mallorca. Nevertheless, a large part of our business remains regionally anchored. This local connection is important to us.

Wirtschaftsforum: Are there any products that are particularly in demand?

Nina Remagen: Yes, the classic bratwurst remains a staple, as do our meatballs. A highlight is ‘Opa Jupps Frikadelle’, made according to my great-grandfather's recipe. It is cooked on a machine that functions like a cast iron pan. This gives the meatballs a handmade look and a traditional taste. Quality is our trademark. My father associated the five stars in the company logo with his five daughters. We continue to uphold this promise of quality with clear origin transparency, our own supplier audits, IFS certification, and organic approval. At the same time, we respond to trends: More and more people are eating less meat, but more consciously. Therefore, we are also developing vegan products. However, quality remains crucial – whether it's for meat or plant-based alternatives.

Wirtschaftsforum: Sustainability and digitalization are central issues today. How are you dealing with them?

Nina Remagen: Both are essential for us. We rely on regional raw materials, short transportation routes, energy-saving technologies, and sustainable packaging. A photovoltaic system, heat recovery, and an ISO-50001 certification are part of this. At the same time, we invest in automation, such as with robot packaging machines, and consistently advance the digitalization of our processes.

Wirtschaftsforum: What are your plans for the coming years?

Nina Remagen: We aim to further strengthen our position as a modern family business, especially in the convenience segment. Here, it’s about providing practical solutions for gastronomy and retail – but with the standard of quality that distinguishes us. At our company, convenience does not mean 'junk food', but rather high-quality products that simplify steps in food preparation.

Wirtschaftsforum: What is particularly important to you as a family business owner?

Nina Remagen: For us, it’s not just about economic success, but also about responsibility towards people and the environment. We don’t think in quarters, but in generations. My father always said, "Pass the flame on – don’t let it extinguish." This motto drives us and will also guide the 11th generation.