Voelkel GmbH
The
Voelkel GmbH: Pioneers in Organic and Demeter Quality
editHistory and Philosophy
editVoelkel GmbH, founded in 1936 by Karl and Margret Voelkel, is a family business with deep roots in biodynamic agriculture. The founders, inspired by the Wandervogel movement, settled in the 1920s in Höhbeck, a sparsely populated area along the Elbe in Lower Saxony, and began cultivating fruits and vegetables according to anthroposophical principles. This philosophy still forms the foundation of the company today[1][4][5].
Key Products and Services
editVoelkel specializes in the traditional and expert production of fruit and vegetable juices, fruit juice variations, soft drinks, and fruit syrups in organic and Demeter quality. The extensive range includes over 170 different products, from mother juices to smoothies and wellness drinks[1][2][5].
Main Mission and Values
editThe company operates under the motto "Responsibility for People and Nature." Voelkel is committed to promoting ecological, economic, and social sustainability. Since 2011, the company has been transformed into a foundation that ensures that 90 percent of the profits are reinvested in the company and 10 percent are directed towards community-oriented projects. The company's values include fair trade, long-term relationships with growers, and social engagement, particularly in promoting children's and youth projects[2][5].
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editVoelkel is actively committed to environmental and climate protection. The company has certified two juices as climate-friendly and continuously works on reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Voelkel uses the guidelines of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) for CO2 accounting. Additionally, the company supports the preservation of biodiversity by promoting organic seed breeding and the cultivation of heirloom vegetable varieties. Voelkel is also a founding member of the Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture (BEL) and actively opposes the use of problematic pesticides[2][5].
Common Good Economy and Social Engagement
editVoelkel is a pioneer in the Common Good Economy and was first assessed according to the criteria of the Common Good Economy in 2020. The company holds the ECOnGOOD label, a comprehensive sustainability label that makes social, ecological, and ethical aspects transparently comparable. Voelkel also supports various social projects, such as the children's aid organization Plan and the German Children's and Youth Foundation, and stands against racist and xenophobic statements[2][5].
With its long-standing tradition, innovative products, and strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, Voelkel has established itself as one of the leading organic juice producers in Germany.