With the passing of Klaus-Michael Kühne, the ‘Kühne world’ loses not only an extremely successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, but also a highly influential figure. Without his commitment, his drive and his courage, the Kühne Foundation would not be where it is today.
The foundation was established 50 years ago out of the conviction that business success goes hand in hand with social responsibility. What began as a local organisation is now one of the largest foundations in Europe: internationally oriented, decentralised, efficient and independent in its actions. Around 800 staff members are involved in practical programmes and projects focusing on logistics, climate, medicine and culture. These operational activities underline the founder’s commitment to taking responsibility and bringing about sustainable improvements in society through active engagement.
It is the proceeds from Klaus-Michael Kühne’s impressive entrepreneurial endeavours that the Foundation uses to find solutions to global challenges. And it is his entrepreneurial principles – which have time and again been applied to the Foundation’s purpose – that provide guidance to the Kühne Foundation and will continue to do so even after his passing.