Familienunternehmen: Underberg-Aufsichtsrat Ludwig Ruder: „Eine Änderung der Erbschaftsteuer würde uns treffen“

Ludwig Ruder, a sixth-generation representative of the Underberg family, is one of seven hidden figures who know the recipe of the Underberg herbal bitters. In his first interview as deputy chairman of the Semper Idem Underberg AG supervisory board, Ruder discussed the upcoming constitutional court negotiations regarding the inheritance tax.

He believes the tax could affect Underberg, as the generational change is not yet complete. Ruder also shared insights into the transformation of the traditional brand, stating that some multinational billion-dollar companies have more marketing budgets than Underberg's revenue. He emphasized growing in a shrinking market and cited successes abroad, demand from a younger demographic, and a surprising moment in the New York subway as sources of optimism.

Ruder was asked if he would accept a possible change in the inheritance tax. He replied that the change would indeed affect Underberg, as they have regulated the current generational change but have not completed all necessary steps. When asked about his general stance on inheritance tax, Ruder expressed support for it, provided it does not hinder investment in the company, employees, or brands, which in turn could prevent growth and reduce overall well-being.

He emphasized that the inheritance tax should not prevent investment. Ruder also commented on the growing sense of injustice in Germany, where people feel that hard work no longer pays off. He believes that the feeling of injustice is growing and can split societies. He emphasized that Unterberg as a family company has been closely intertwined for 180 years, but the family cannot sell the company, as it is essential for the business's survival.