2025 is drawing to a close – time to look back on a year in which a lot was set in motion: new projects, exciting markets, strong partnerships, and important steps towards sustainability have shaped our work and enabled us to grow.
A YEAR OF INTERNATIONALISATION
Over the past twelve months, all signs pointed to internationalisation – and we kicked off the year in style: with the opening of our office in Paris, bringing us even closer to our partners in France. Following the opening of our first Swedish terminal in Varberg last year, we further strengthened our presence in Sweden with an additional terminal in Oskarshamn. Across Europe, we expanded our reach through new supply chains from Poland, Ireland, and the Baltics, as well as to Italy. Another highlight was our project trip to Spain: under the motto “Brüning Olé”, an interdisciplinary team explored the local biomass and waste industry. We applied the same approach at numerous fairs and conferences around the world, as our expansion is not limited to Europe. A striking example of this is our strategic partnership with the Melchers Group, which, by the end of this year, granted us direct access to the Chinese timber market. International business requires an international team – so this year we welcomed numerous new colleagues enriching the Brüning Group in Finland, France, and beyond. Internal exchange across borders was promoted through our Internationals Day, where we shared insights from different markets and learned from one another.
ENABLING A GREENER INDUSTRY
Overall, it was a dynamic year – not only for us: the European Green Deal is paving the way towards decarbonisation and keeping the manufacturing industry particularly busy with its regulations. By expanding our product portfolio, we have further consolidated our position as a reliable partner for sustainable, biogenic raw materials – especially for energy-intensive industries. In addition to traditional woody biomass, this includes numerous agricultural residues, a development driven largely by our Agricultural Unit, established last year. A notable example is the successful shipment of cashew nutshells – the first bulk vessel of this kind for the Brüning Group. Another key milestone was the signing of a contract to supply the Outokumpu EvoCarbon GmbH biocarbon plant: in the future, we will annually provide up to 100,000 tonnes of waste wood for biocarbon production, which will then flow into stainless steel manufacturing. Alongside the steel industry, many other sectors are seeking alternatives to fossil fuels. As a new supporting member of the German Lime Association (BVK), we are also providing this industry with valuable impetus for low-carbon production. The demand for such solutions was evident at the Handelsblatt Annual Conference “Decarbonisation of Industry 2025”, where our Head of International Business Development, Svenja Bätz, impressively presented the potential of biogenic fuels for industrial transformation.
IN SERVICE OF A GREENER FUTURE
In this respect, we consistently fulfilled our pioneering role in sustainability in 2025. It kick-started with our ‘READY FOR RED III’ open campus in April, where we provided our guests with a thorough overview of current regulations and practical support for implementing legal requirements. In times of volatile frameworks, we increasingly see ourselves as a system service provider, offering guidance, security, and compliance well beyond mere fuel supply. The impact of this commitment was underlined by a special award at the end of the year: at the “Innovator of the Year” ceremony, the Brüning Group was honoured as “Green Innovator” – a strong signal that our work is making a measurable contribution to a greener future.
PARTNERSHIPS THAT MOVE
Besides innovation and internationalisation, it was also a year of strong partnerships for us. We celebrated 25 years of membership in the Quality Association for Plant Substrates (GGS) and strengthened our network in other key industry associations such as the RDF Industry Group as well as the German Biochar Industry Consortium. A particular highlight was the visit by the Young Group of the German Association of Waste Wood Processors and Recyclers (BAV) to the Brüning Group. The varied programme offered the perfect mix of theory and practice – and the open exchange was an enrichment for all involved. Once again, it became clear how different perspectives can create momentum for an entire industry.
ACHIEVING MORE TOGETHER
Together, we can achieve more – whether with business partners, in associations, or within the Group. To foster this togetherness within the team, we created numerous opportunities for interaction: from after-work football and speed-dating between accounting and operational units to the Schnackabend (an evening of chatting), where we shared insights into our work with each other. This spirit was particularly evident in the Brüning Summer School, which brought together colleagues from all units to share knowledge, learn from one another, and gain new perspectives.
MOMENTUM FOR 2026
2025 demonstrated what is possible when commitment, expertise, and team spirit come together. We achieved a great deal while laying the foundation for future success. Our sincere thanks go to all colleagues, partners, and supporters who have walked this path with us. Together, we are entering 2026 full of energy for our shared mission: Enabling a greener future.