Handwerk: Seit 65 Jahren Meister - Gert Ebenrecht backt weiter

Gert Ebenrecht, an 85-year-old master baker, continues his craft in Teicha, a small town near Halle, after a 65-year career. Born into a family of bakers, Ebenrecht has spent his entire life in the bakery, recalling that he was already involved in the trade before turning one year old. His grandfather, Karl, established the bakery in 1911, and the family has been running it ever since, with three generations of masters working together.

Ebenrecht proudly receives the Iron Master certificate from the Halle Chamber of Crafts for his unwavering work, stating that he chooses to work and does not feel obligated to do so. His son Thomas, now a master baker himself, oversees the business with his son Max, who focuses on marketing and expansion strategies. Together, they have earned five "culinary stars" from the state's agricultural marketing company, including for their spelt bread, stollen, and "beer bread."

Despite the changing times and competition from industrial bakeries, the Ebenrechts remain committed to their craft. However, finding skilled labor is increasingly difficult, and the number of apprentices has halved in the past decade. The younger generations show little interest in the demanding work, preferring more flexible schedules.

The bakery's success has attracted regional supermarket chains, but the industry they once dominated is rapidly disappearing. With only six employees, including the family, the Ebenrechts face challenges in maintaining their work-life balance. Despite their efforts, the sixth generation is yet to be decided, but Max Ebenrecht remains hopeful that the handcraft will continue.