Thuringian Nutrition Network e.V. (TH-ERN)
Strengthening Regional Food Systems – Promoting Innovation and Sustainability
Thuringia is known for its culinary specialties – from the famous Thüringer Klöße (potato dumplings) to the Original Thüringer Rostbratwurst. But the region offers far more: a diverse array of food products is produced daily under the highest standards by skilled professionals and with great care.
Small and medium-sized, often family-run enterprises form the backbone of Thuringia’s food industry. Many of them have a long-standing tradition and are behind established brands that continue to evolve and respond to modern trends. Alongside these are young companies and innovative manufacturers that bring fresh ideas to the market. This unique combination of tradition and innovation makes Thuringian food products as diverse and dynamic as the region itself.
The food industry is one of Thuringia’s key sectors within the manufacturing industry. In 2022, over 20,000 employees across 163 companies (with at least 20 employees each) generated a total revenue of €5.6 bn.
After years of challenges – from the COVID-19 pandemic to the war in Ukraine and rising energy prices – the industry continues to adapt. Companies are facing mounting pressure from supply chain disruptions, inflation, labor shortages, and increasingly strict regulations (e.g., proposed bans on advertising many food products to children). Despite these hurdles, the Thuringian food sector has demonstrated resilience, maintaining food security and continuously striving for sustainability, digital transformation, and regional value creation.
Why a Strong Industry Network Matters
For over 12 years TH-ERN e.V. has been the central network for Thuringia’s food industry. Founded to represent and amplify the industry’s voice, the association now offers a wide range of services and support for both members and non-members.
Thuringia’s food industry is primarily made up of small and medium-sized enterprises. These companies often lack the time and personnel to fully engage with the broader transformation processes that are becoming increasingly necessary. At the same time, the economic climate is more challenging than ever, and excessive bureaucracy further slows down essential innovation and development.
The Thuringian Nutrition Network e.V. provides a platform for exchange, mutual support and collaboration. Through targeted thematic impulses and cross-industry connections, we foster cooperation, strengthen regional value creation, and raise awareness for new technologies – sometimes even opening the door to entirely new business opportunities.
As a trusted partner for policymakers, the network facilitates important dialogue between industry and government.
Our mission is to
- Strengthen the regional food economy
- Enhance competitiveness and innovation
- Ensure skilled workforce development
- Facilitate collaboration and knowledge transfer
- Support companies in digitalization and sustainable transformation
What We Offer
- Networking & Events: Regular workshops, roundtables, and conferences connect industry players, researchers, and policymakers. (e.g. www.mitteldeutscher-ernaehrungsgipfel.de)
- Project Development: We initiate and support regional innovation projects to build future-ready value chains.
- Support for Businesses: We help companies access knowledge, funding, research partnerships, and hands-on tools for growth and modernization.
- Recruitment of skilled workers: Assisting our members in recruiting and retaining the next generation of skilled professionals and through initiatives like the Nachwuchsforum, we encourage future professionals to enter the industry.
Factsheet
Our services are tailored to the needs of our members – yet we also welcome dialogue with non-members interested in the benefits of our network. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
Our Members
The Thuringian Nutrition Network e.V. is supported as an innovation cluster within the framework of the Joint Task for the Improvement of Regional Economic Structures (GRW).
