Organic Alpine herbs from Holderhof an export success

Switzerland is known abroad primarily for its cheese and chocolate. But Swiss foreign trade statistics show, surprisingly for many, that beverages are a much more important export item in terms of value. This is primarily due to the Swiss production site of a globally operating energy drink manufacturer. But that’s not all: Holderhof Produkte AG has also built up a solid export base in recent years, especially in neighbouring countries. In the German food retail trade (LEH), iced tea, apple spritzer, syrup or ginger shots, among others, are listed, which are produced by Holderhof on behalf as private labels. «I still find the idea that our herbs harvested on our own farmland are included in organic alpine herb iced tea in Germany fascinating,» says Daniel Frehner, Head of Purchasing and Sales at Holderhof Produkte AG. The company thus proves that even in Switzerland, a supposedly expensive production location, an export business is possible with raw materials from local agriculture. It remains to be said that the company also engages in classic processing, with the processing of foreign raw materials in its own production facilities into beverages that are then exported back again. Among other things, this is made possible by modern production facilities and an efficient logistics network.

Bakery chains profit from own brands

Holderhof Produkte AG can keep up with foreign competitors not only in terms of price. Because the company offers private-label beverages starting at 5000 bottles, it covers a niche here that is unattractive to many larger beverage producers and bottlers in Germany, for example. «That’s why we are interesting for smaller retailers or also take-away providers or burger chains,» explains Daniel Frehner. This paved the way to the German bakery industry, among others. There, word has long since spread that Holderhof also supplies medium-sized bakeries with innovative beverages under their own brand. That’s why several German bakery chains are now customers, and the trend is rising. The Holderhof own-brand concept is the decisive factor here. Interested companies can contact the sales representative responsible for Germany, Simeon-Joel Brunner.

Ginger shots as eye-catchers

But the export business is about more than just soft drinks “Made in Switzerland”. Holderhof is also successful on foreign markets with its syrups and can compete there. «With our own elderberry extract made to a special recipe, we have a trump card here,» says Daniel Frehner. In addition, as the business relationship grows, more and more customers are coming to like the taste and are adding other Holderhof products to their assortment, such as ginger shots, which they offer on the counter for spontaneous purchases. Daniel Frehner is convinced: «The potential is far from exhausted, especially when it comes to organic products!»