About us
For over 140 years, we have stood for the distribution and marketing of international chilled and frozen products. Together with our more than 20 brand partners, we bring innovation and variety to refrigerators and freezers across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Founded in 1884 as a cheese wholesaler, we are one of the oldest family-owned companies in the German food trade. Change has always been part of our DNA – sometimes gradual, sometimes disruptive. As a family business with quick decision-making, we respond rapidly to market trends, deliver innovation, and develop brands sustainably together with our partners.
Uplegger Food Company is part of UPLEGGER GROUP.
Historie
Pioneer in international cheese trading
Since our founding in Hanover in 1884, we have played a defining role in international cheese trading. By importing Swiss cheese, Alfred A. Jatho laid the foundation for a rapidly growing cross-border business. Following the early passing of the founder’s son, Carl Uplegger took over responsibility, ensuring both entrepreneurial and family continuity.
Rebuilding and systematic market expansion
After World War II, a new chapter began in 1945 with our own production and the “Vierblatt Käsewerk” brand. At the same time, we established a strong wholesale business and expanded our portfolio with leading brands—laying the foundation for a resilient retail network.
Transformation in times of change
With the fourth generation, we realigned our strategy. Kay Uplegger responded early to the increasing consolidation in food retail, fundamentally transforming our business model in the early 1990s and positioning the company for a sustainable future.
From trade agent to brand partner
Since the 1990s, we have evolved from a traditional trade agent into an integrated brand partner. From 1999 onwards, with Kerstin Uplegger as managing partner, we consolidated our sales activities, strengthened our international brand portfolio, and expanded into new markets such as Austria and Switzerland.
Entering new markets and categories
New impulses – such as entering the frozen food segment and a strong focus on innovative brands – define our development under the fifth generation, represented by Konstantin Uplegger. As a family business, we successfully combine tradition with modern market expertise, developing successful food brands for the retail landscape of tomorrow.