Founded in 1946 the Landwirtschaftsverlag in Munster is more than just a publishing house. It’s a cornerstone of agricultural media in Germany. This unassuming building on Hulsebrockstrasse houses a media giant. Did you know it employs over 900 people? They generate over 115 million euros in annual revenue. That makes it one of Germany’s top 100 media companies.
The Landwirtschaftsverlag’s story began in the aftermath of World War II. Three visionary farmers Franz Luster-Haggeney Hermann Sultemeier and Ludwig Weddige obtained a printing license. They aimed to revitalize agriculture. Their initial workspace was a repurposed distillery in Steinhagen. Imagine the transformation from spirits to stories.
In 1948 the Landwirtschaftsverlag moved to a former villa in Hiltrup. This marked a significant step. The first book appeared the same year. It documented post-war agriculture in Westphalia-Lippe. The Landwirtschaftsverlag’s commitment to agricultural knowledge was evident from the start. They published governmental reports and even a popular handbook for plant doctors.
The Landwirtschaftsverlag expanded its reach significantly. In 1972 they launched top agrar a nationwide agricultural magazine. Landlust a magazine dedicated to rural life joined the family in 2005. Its initial circulation reached 700000 copies. This soared to a million two years later. This highlights the Landwirtschaftsverlag’s evolving engagement with rural life and agriculture.
The Landwirtschaftsverlag isn’t just about print. They launched agripool.de an online product finder. Then traktorpool an online used machinery exchange followed. These online ventures represent the Landwirtschaftsverlag’s adaptation to the digital age. They continue to expand their online presence with other platforms like rimondo for equestrian sports. The Landwirtschaftsverlag also actively participates in international markets expanding into Poland Austria Switzerland and beyond through licensing agreements.
The Landwirtschaftsverlag’s success is rooted in its three shareholders. The Westphalia-Lippe Agricultural Association represents farmers and their families. The Raiffeisenverband Westfalen-Lippe organizes agricultural cooperatives. The Stiftung Westfälische Landschaft focuses on rural well-being. This diverse ownership reflects the Landwirtschaftsverlag’s commitment to serving its community.
Today the Landwirtschaftsverlag GmbH stands as a testament to the power of agricultural publishing. It’s a leader in the industry. Its publications and digital platforms provide invaluable resources to professionals and enthusiasts alike. The Landwirtschaftsverlag’s journey demonstrates resilience innovation and an unwavering dedication to the land its people and its future.