Volkmar Wywiol

Founder and Partner at Stern-Wywiol Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG

Volkmar Wywiol is the founder of the Stern-Wywiol Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG, a prominent company based in Hamburg, Germany, specializing in food ingredients and additives for both human and animal nutrition. Established in 1980, the company began with the acquisition of a small trading firm named Sternchemie, focusing initially on lecithin as an emulsifier for the food industry.1 2

Career and Contributions

Under Wywiol's leadership, the Stern-Wywiol Gruppe expanded significantly, entering various sectors including animal feed through the acquisition of Berg+Schmidt in 1982. The company has since developed into a global player with 12 German subsidiaries and 19 international affiliates, employing around 1,974 people and generating a revenue of approximately 672 million euros in 2023.1 4

Volkmar Wywiol's vision emphasized innovation and quality, leading to the establishment of the Stern-Technology Center in Ahrensburg, which serves as a research and development hub for the group.1 4 He remained active in the company until 2011, when he stepped back from daily operations, passing leadership to his son, Torsten Wywiol.5 6

Company Overview

The Stern-Wywiol Gruppe operates multiple specialized firms that produce a wide range of functional systems for food products. These include:

Mühlenchemie: Focuses on flour improvement.
SternEnzym: Develops enzyme systems for various food applications.
HERZA Schokolade: Produces chocolate pieces for different food products.
SternMaid: A leading contract manufacturer for food additives and supplements.2 3 4

Personal Insights

On his LinkedIn profile, Volkmar Wywiol describes his journey from starting a small business to establishing a significant international enterprise. His commitment to quality and innovation continues to influence the company's direction even after his transition from active management.7 8

In summary, Volkmar Wywiol has played a crucial role in shaping the Stern-Wywiol Gruppe into a leader in the food ingredients sector, known for its innovative approaches and extensive product offerings.