Joachim Kilian’s commitment to Altenau’s brewing tradition began back in 2013, when his planning firm arranged a new bottling line for the brewery. His persistence, sense of responsibility and passion are why he has now run the traditional business as a family company for four years. These are virtues essential to successful self-employment.
Beer has been brewed in Altenau for more than 400 years. If Joachim Kilian and his family have their way, that will continue for many years to come. ‘We’re a family business, and everyone pitches in,’ says the master brewer and managing director, who is happy to get on a forklift himself. While this is commonplace at small Bavarian breweries, it initially surprised people in the Upper Harz. But for the founder, it’s natural: ‘Both for profitability and for team morale, it’s important to us that the boss lends a hand.’
The takeover from Klosterkammer Hannover in 2021 was not entirely smooth (as the GZ reported). But thanks to thorough advance planning, WiReGo’s active help with funding advice and a committed team, the first case of Altenauer rolled off the line just over a month after the agreement was signed on 1 April 2021. ‘Considering all the dealings with authorities over beer tax, customs and more, that was an outstanding achievement,’ recalls the master brewer. ‘All the authorities pulled together.’
The successful start to self-employment brought new challenges. The enormous rise in energy prices in 2022 caused sleepless nights. ‘The funniest document from our startup phase is the business plan,’ Kilian jokes. ‘None of it still holds true.’ While sales far exceeded forecasts, rising costs cut profits significantly. The 50-year-old believes that watching profitability and responding early to change are essential to keeping a company out of trouble. Profits therefore always go back into the business. Further investments will also be needed over the next few years to prepare the historic brewery for the future.
Looking back on two successful company launches – Joachim Kilian remains a shareholder in the planning firm BFDtec – one lesson stands out: perseverance is essential. ‘It easily takes three to four years to build a company, get to know it and get it running,’ the founder emphasizes. ‘You have to be as tough as chewing gum.’ Kilian’s persistence has paid off. Altenauer Brewery is profitable, its passionate team has a secure employer, and the founder can occasionally turn his attention to other projects again.
Information: www.altenauer-brauerei.de
