Dear friends and colleagues,

In this issue of NKG Connected, we want to have a closer look at upcoming opportunities and how we deal with them. Opportunities bundle, but how do we detect them and what does it take to successfully introduce them for a competitive advantage of NKG? For this purpose, we will have a look at our progress in the most dynamic growth area of coffee consumption: Asia. Even the best strategy fails if it lacks proper implementation, therefore we will show and review the group’s development in this region as an important example.

After years of virtual meetings, we were finally able to gather in Hamburg for the Be-Together in person. It was a highlight of the year to meet and be able to exchange views on the developments of the group with the colleagues from around the globe. From the moment of arrival there was a feeling of convivial togetherness. We heard from the Board of Management the strategy and business update on what I consider to be one of the most complex world and coffee market environment for decades. The political as well as the economic environment coupled with the consequences of last year’s coffee supply difficulties makes this year stand out as quite unique in coffee history. The uncertainty surrounding our activities made risk management stand out as the key priority on all endeavours. And yet, NKG was able to continue adapting its business and organizational structure to solidify its presence in the world markets.

And we celebrated even more: Maren Uzarek joined the Board of Management on October 1^st,. Congratulations to this achievement! As the Director Group HR, she will introduce us to her work and focus of the new position.

As the year comes to an end, we wish to thank all of you for your continuous commitment and dedication to NKG. May the coming year bring us a more peaceful and constructive environment which may permit to display further all the strengths which NKG can supply to the global coffee community.

We wish you a happy and restful holiday season and welcome you back next year in high spirits!