Celebrating the 480th Bremen Schaffermahlzeit
Philip W. Herwig takes on a key role at traditional Bremen event
From the handsomely decorated hall to the annual schedule filled with Hanseatic tradition: On 9 February 2024, the 480th Schaffermahlzeit will take place in Bremen City Hall. The event is the oldest annual banquet in the world and considered one of the most important social events in Germany. Organised by the ‘Stiftung Haus Seefahrt’ foundation, the Schaffermahlzeit has symbolised the close ties between Bremen's shipping industry and merchants since 1545. Around 300 people attend the banquet: 100 commercial members of the foundation, 100 nautical members of the foundation and 100 external guests from the worlds of business, culture, politics and administration. Germany’s Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has also been invited as this year's guest of honour.
Every year, three new "Schaffer", or commercial members of the foundation, are elected. Two years after their appointment, they are responsible for the organisation and financing of the Schaffermahlzeit event. In 2024, this special task will fall to Philip W. Herwig, Managing Partner and Chairman of the Global Executive Board at Röhlig Logistics. As the 1st Schaffer, his responsibilities include invitations and looking after the guests, as well as delivering three speeches.
"Our family business was founded in Bremen over 170 years ago and has been firmly anchored in the city ever since. I myself came into contact with the Schaffermahlzeit at an early age - my father was a Schaffer in 1994, and in 2002 I had the honour of helping to open the associated seafaring ball. It is a great honour for me to now take on the role of Schaffer myself,"
Philip W. Herwig, Managing Partner and Chairman of the Global Executive Board at Röhlig Logistics
Traditionally, donations are collected at the Schaffermahlzeit to support seafarers in need as well as their families. More recently, nautical students in need have also benefited from the donations. Philip W. Herwig explains why this charitable cause is yet another reason why the event is close to his heart: "As an international logistics solutions provider, sea freight is one of our core business areas, and we also attach great importance to promoting young talent. With this in mind, I am all the more pleased that all of the proceeds from the Schaffermahlzeit will benefit both current and aspiring seafarers.”
