Young entrepreneur Paul Belthle receives a special prize for 'the oil lovers'
Young entrepreneur Paul Belthle receives a special prize for 'the oil lovers'
The German start-up landscape has a dazzling new star: 18-year-old Paul Belthle from the picturesque Beuron in Swabia and his company "Die Oilfreunde" not only conquered the hearts of the gourmets, but also the attention of the country's largest business parliament! A few days ago, Paul was presented with the coveted special prize of the German Founder Award-and that in Berlin, in the glamorous ZDF main city studio!
What makes Paul so special? Is he just another face in the world of startups? One might think that after a few weeks of majority, the establishment of a company was not exactly the most common decision of its age. But Paul has proven with flying colors that it is possible! His fascinating journey started from a very special Christmas present - an oil mill instead of an ordinary game console. As he himself says: "It was the beginning of a passion that I would never have expected!"
an ascent like in a fairy tale!
From his first, hesitant attempts to press rapeseed oil in the home kitchen, Paul rose to Germany's recent oil miller in a very short time! Demand increased rapidly over the years, and the entire family pulled together. There was support not only in the family business, but also in sales - "the oil lovers" quickly became a real family business. Paul's parents were always at his side and together they transformed the first ideas into an impressive business!
But that was only the beginning: Corona pandemic was a challenge for many, but a golden opportunity for Paul! While people rediscovered their kitchens, the demand for its high -quality, cold -pressed oils shot through the ceiling! In 2023 Paul ventured the next step and founded the "Omegalecker GmbH", in which he is now the sole managing director. Today he not only sells his products online, but also in supermarkets across Germany - yes, even via teleshopping!
sustainability as a recipe for success
However,Paul is not only in mind the sales - his success is based on an innovative and sustainable approach. "The oil lovers" produce up to 2,000 liters of oil every day and reach a new record level with remarkable 230,000 liters last year! Paul provides the distinctive promise: "We only use natural ingredients without chemical additives" - a real keyword at a time when sustainability is becoming increasingly important.
The regional cooperation with farmers is at the center of his business model and his philosophy of the short supply chains ensures that not only the quality of its products is correct, but also benefits the economy in Swabia. "The region is the heart of our business," explains Paul with pride. And customers notice that too! His famous garlic, chilli and herbal oils have become a hit!
"The oil lovers" not only inspire with excellent products - Paul's vision is also a sign for all young founders: he proves that entrepreneurship is not a question of age, but also of engagement and the ideal. "I want to continue growing and strengthen our roots in the region!" He is eclectic in his mindset and open to new encounters - be it at the Slow Food Messe or at the Food Innovation Camp!
paus services did not remain unnoticed: Dr. Gregor Peter Schmitz from the "Stern" editor-in-chief emphasizes: "We are wrong when we say that today's youth do not want to act and design-like Paul!" With his special prize of the German start -up award, the partners catapulted him to the top of the entrepreneurship - Paul is a real pioneer for generation z!