SONNENTOR and StarDev: Development Partnership for Germany

SONNENTOR and StarDev have signed the Development Contract for Germany. Effective immediately, StarDev will act as SONNENTOR’s national representative in Germany, taking over all franchise-related responsibilities.

1. Sustainability and the Common Good Economy

SONNENTOR, Austria’s market leader in organic herbs and teas, renowned for its

commitment to sustainability and innovation . Founded in 1988 by Johannes Gutmann in the idyllic Waldviertel region ("Forest Quarter"), SONNENTOR is much more than just a brand: as a pioneer of organic farming from the very beginning, the company is committed to organic agriculture, circular economy principles, and the common good.

"Appreciation" is at the core of SONNENTOR’s corporate culture—whether in its collaboration with farmers, interactions with customers, or respect for nature. Then and now, SONNENTOR strives for meaningful impact.

Innovative products such as “Gute Laune Tea” (Good mood tea) or “Das Beste für Reste” ("Best for Leftovers"), combined with creative packaging designs, have established SONNENTOR as a leading brand in the organic segment. Today, 35 stores in Austria, Germany, and the Czech Republic—most of them operated by franchise partners—bring SONNENTOR’s products and values directly to customers.

Are you interested in SONNENTOR’s exciting franchise opportunities?

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2. Growth in Germany with StarDev

To drive the expansion of its franchise system in Germany, SONNENTOR has partnered with StarDev. As long-time admirers of the brand, the StarDev team is proud to work alongside SONNENTOR in increasing the availability of sustainable and organic products in Germany.

With over 20 years of experience in franchising, StarDev takes on the following key responsibilities within the franchise sector:

• Franchise Recruitment: From attracting potential franchisees and selecting suitable partners to onboarding and finalizing contracts.

• Expansion & Site Development: Creating a detailed expansion strategy to identify optimal locations in Germany and Austria, as well as supporting lease negotiations.

• Construction Support:

  Ensuring timely and brand-compliant store openings through close monitoring and documentation of the construction process.

• On-going Franchise support: After a store has opened, StarDev remains a permanent point of contact for franchise partners regarding operational questions and local store marketing. The company maintains the franchise network and regularly visits all locations. The goal is to provide franchise partners with comprehensive support—whether in adhering to brand standards or in running a fulfilling and sustainable business.