Schulte Group Assumes Full Ownership of sea chefs and Establishes New Advisory Board
The Schulte Group has acquired full ownership of sea chefs, one of the world’s leading hospitality partners for cruise operators, and formed a new Advisory Board including the founders to ensure continuity and drive future growth.
The Schulte Group has completed the full acquisition of sea chefs Holding, taking over the remaining 50% of shares in the company and strengthening its position as a leading provider of maritime and hospitality services to the global cruise industry. The transaction, expected to be finalised in January 2026, follows the Schulte Group’s initial 50% investment in 2024.
sea chefs is one of the world’s largest hospitality service providers for the cruise sector, supporting more than 70 ocean-going and river cruise ships with full-service hotel and catering management. As part of the acquisition announcement, the Schulte Group and sea chefs confirmed the creation of a new Advisory Board that will include sea chefs founders Georg Bernsteiner and Helmut Rödig, industry experts, and a representative of the Schulte family. Both founders will remain actively involved with the business, ensuring continuity for customers and employees while providing strategic support to the management team.
“sea chefs is a respected company with a strong brand, dedicated team, and loyal customers,” said Martin Springer, President of the Schulte Group’s Cruise & Hospitality segment. “This acquisition brings together two organisations that share similar values and a focus on customer service. We’re committed to working closely with sea chefs’ management to ensure customers continue to receive the quality and attention they expect. sea chefs’ services align closely with ours, and together we will be able to offer a broader range of solutions to support our clients’ needs.”
Since the initial investment, the companies have deepened their collaboration across recruitment, training, and global partnerships. Full ownership will enable further investment in innovation and long-term growth.
Under the Schulte Group umbrella, sea chefs will continue to operate as an independent brand. It will work closely with group companies including BSM Cruise Services, which manages 15 cruise vessels; Schulte Marine Concept, specialising in newbuilding and conversion projects; and cruisePAL, a digital solutions and software provider for the cruise industry. Together, they form a comprehensive service ecosystem for both established cruise operators and emerging players.
Franz-Josef Viehhauser, Chairman of sea chefs Holding, expressed confidence in the company’s future:
“We’ve built strong, long-term relationships with our customers over the years, and that trust means everything to us. After two successful years with the Schulte Group at our side, we can clearly feel the tremendous potential ahead, and the future of sea chefs is firmly set. Both of our family-owned businesses share a commitment to long-lasting relationships, thoughtful decision-making, and sustainable growth. This acquisition unlocks new resources and opportunities, allowing us to further strengthen our global presence and enhance our services.”
The management team, led by Viehhauser, will remain unchanged and continues to enjoy the full support of the new shareholders. With the backing of the Schulte Group, sea chefs is set to strengthen its role as a trusted partner to the global cruise sector while expanding its capabilities as an independent, customer-focused organisation.
source: seanews.co.uk