What does modern agricultural trade look like and what opportunities does the exchange between field, academia, and businesses offer? Around 20 members of the Young DLG Kiel university team (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society) found answers to these questions during their visit to the Brüning Group headquarters in early June 2026. As part of a one-day excursion through Bremen and Lower Saxony, the group gained practical insights along the entire agricultural value chain. Following visits to a dairy farm and a biomethane plant, the Brüning Group was the third stop of the day, providing guests with an insight into international agricultural trade.
THE FUTURE OF THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
The DLG is a key platform for the agricultural sector and actively promotes the networking of young talents through initiatives such as the Young DLG. Young DLG Kiel is part of a nationwide network that brings together the next generation of agricultural professionals and supports knowledge transfer between students, young farmers, and young professionals through specialist events and excursions. The idea for the visit to the Brüning Group originated from Janne Grobler from Purchasing and Sales in the agricultural unit. “The Young DLG brings together committed young people who are shaping the future of agriculture. We deliberately wanted to make use of this network to give young professionals a better understanding of our work and to encourage dialogue,” explains Janne.
EXPERIENCING AGRICULTURAL TRADING
After a shared lunch with sandwiches, Matthias Warnke, COO of Recycling & Waste, opened the day with an introduction to the Brüning Group and its business areas. This was followed by a presentation from Nils Jäger, Head of the agricultural unit, who provided insights into the company’s activities in agricultural trading and spoke about current developments as well as challenges facing the sector. The day drew to a close on the rooftop terrace with refreshments and a view over Bremen. In a relaxed setting, contacts were made, experiences shared, and prospects discussed. The open atmosphere led to lively conversations, which many participants particularly appreciated. Nils is equally optimistic: “I am looking forward to the next generation of agriculture and to playing an even greater role in shaping its future.”
THE FUTURE IS SHAPED THROUGH DIALOGUE
The visit impressively demonstrates just how valuable direct dialogue between companies and the next generation of industry professionals is. Last year’s visit by the Young Group of the BAV (Bundesverband der Altholzaufbereiter und -verwerter e. V. – Federal Association of Waste Wood Processors and Recyclers) had already highlighted the potential of such encounters. With Young DLG Kiel, we have now taken this idea a step further: bringing young talents together and strengthening networks. For the Brüning Group, formats like these remain a vital component in actively promoting exchange with young professionals and fostering dialogue within the sector.