Ankerkraut Spices

Ankerkraut is a prominent German spice manufacturer founded in 2013 by Anne and Stefan Lemcke in Hamburg. The brand gained significant national attention after appearing on the startup television show 'Die Höhle der Löwen', where it secured investment and rapidly expanded its reach from a small local manufactory to a major retail player known for its iconic cork-stoppered glass jars.

In early 2022, the brand underwent a major ownership change when the consumer goods giant Nestlé acquired a majority stake (approximately 85%) in the company. This acquisition was met with considerable public debate among the brand's loyal community. Despite the change in ownership, Ankerkraut continues to operate with its production base in Jesteburg, near Hamburg, maintaining its focus on high-quality, additive-free spice blends and BBQ rubs for the European market.