Founders join new Advisory Board as Schulte Group completes full acquisition of sea chefs
HAMBURG: The Schulte Group, a leading family-owned provider of maritime solutions, has acquired a further 50% of shares in sea chefs Holding, completing its full ownership of the leading international partner for cruise and tour operators. sea chefs are providing full-service hospitality management to more than 70 ocean-going and river cruise ships worldwide. The transaction is expected to be finalized in January 2026, and it complements the Schulte Group’s initial 50% acquisition in 2024.
Following the acquisition, Schulte Group and sea chefs announce the formation of an Advisory Board for sea chefs. The Advisory Board will include sea chefs’ founders Georg Bernsteiner and Helmut Rödig, industry participants, and a shareholder representative of the Schulte family. As such, Bernsteiner and Rödig will remain closely involved with sea chefs’ customers and management team, ensuring continuity and providing strategic guidance.
“sea chefs is a respected company with a strong brand, dedicated team, and loyal customers,” said Martin Springer, President of the Schulte Group’s Cruise & Hospitality segment. “This acquisition brings together two organisations that share similar values and a focus on customer service. We’re committed to working closely with sea chefs’ management to ensure customers continue to receive the quality and attention they expect. sea chefs’ services align closely with ours, and together we will be able to offer a broader range of solutions to support our clients’ needs.”
Since acquiring its initial 50% stake, the Schulte Group and sea chefs have strengthened cooperation across areas such as recruitment, training, and global partnerships. Full ownership will enable further investment in innovation and growth.
As part of the wider Schulte Group, sea chefs will continue to operate as an independent brand, working alongside sister companies including BSM Cruise Services, who offers quality ship management services for 15 cruise vessels, Schulte Marine Concept, the newbuilding arm of the Group, and cruisePAL, a digital solutions and comprehensive software solution dedicated to the cruise industry. Together, these companies provide a comprehensive service offering for both established operators and new market entrants.
“We’ve built strong, long-term relationships with our customers over the years, and that trust means everything to us,” said Franz-Josef Viehhauser, Chairman of sea chefs Holding. “After two successful years with the Schulte Group at our side, we can clearly feel the tremendous potential ahead, and the future of sea chefs is firmly set. Both of our family-owned businesses share a commitment to long-lasting relationships, thoughtful decision-making, and sustainable growth. This acquisition unlocks new resources and opportunities, allowing us to further strengthen our global presence and enhance our services.”
The management team, chaired by Viehhauser, enjoys the full confidence of the new shareholders and remains unchanged. Backed by the Schulte Group’s commitment, this team will further shape the company’s future as an independent brand and client-focused organisation.