Alexander Kühnen, the CEO of the cookie manufacturer Bahlsen, has firmly spoken out against the Alternative for Germany (AfD). In an interview with the Tagesspiegel, he emphasized the necessity for companies to actively advocate for democracy. Kühnen stated, “When I look at which parties represent these values, they are the democratic parties. And there are clear boundaries.”
The Bahlsen CEO specifically criticized the AfD’s positions on remigration, labeling them as “unacceptable.” He justified his stance with economic arguments, saying, “We need skilled workers, we need open trade in Europe, we need stable economic conditions.” Kühnen made it clear that the AfD is “no alternative for him—neither in business nor personally.”
Kühnen highlighted that isolationist ideas do not align with a family business like Bahlsen. “If I think nationally and believe that only certain nationalities should work here, then that does not fit with us,” said the CEO. He called on companies to take a stand and assume responsibility to defend democracy.
The discussion about how companies should engage with the AfD is not new. Last year, the Association of Family Entrepreneurs invited AfD representatives to an event, which led to sharp criticism. Following the withdrawal of several prominent member companies, the association revised its position.
