Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff Receives the Esteemed Brillat Savarin Plaque
The International Food and Beverage Association (IFBA) proudly announces that Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff, the visionary force behind SEETELHOTELS, has been awarded the highly esteemed Brillat Savarin Plaque. This prestigious award, presented by the FBMA-Stiftung Food and Beverage Management Association of Germany, is a symbol of excellence and dedication to the art of hospitality.
Inspiring Leadership in the German Hospitality
The FBMA-Stiftung Food and Beverage Management Association of Germany continues the long-standing tradition of recognising excellence by selecting individuals who uphold the highest standards of hospitality. Recently, the FBMA-Stiftung awarded the Brillat Savarin Plaque to Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff, the founder of SEETELHOTELS, for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the German hospitality industry. The Brillat Savarin Plaque is a distinguished honour that recognises excellence and dedication in the hospitality field. This recognition is a significant milestone in Seelige-Steinhoff’s illustrious career, highlighting his visionary leadership and remarkable contributions to the industry.
The Legacy of Brillat Savarin Plaque
The Brillat Savarin Plaque, a testament and homage to the spirit of innovation, passion, and unwavering dedication within the German hospitality industry, celebrates over 60 years of history as one of its highest honours. This prestigious accolade, named after Jean Anthèlme Brillat-Savarin—an iconic writer, philosopher, and epicurean who left a lasting imprint on the culinary world—acknowledges those visionaries and innovators whose efforts have significantly shaped the German gastronomy and hospitality landscapes. Since its inception in 1955, the plaque has stood as a beacon of culinary and service excellence, honouring the exceptional individuals who have contributed profoundly to the hospitality and dining culture.
Brillat Savarin Plakette © FBMA-Stiftung
A Milestone of Excellence for Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff
Administered by the non-profit FBMA-Stiftung Food and Beverage Management Association of Germany since 2007, it recognises and inspires the culinary realm’s luminaries, fostering an enduring legacy of excellence echoing through generations. Within this grand tradition, the Brillat Savarin Plaque has recently recognised the achievements of Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff, a figure who has redefined the parameters of luxury and service in Germany, further enriching this legacy of distinguished hospitality and culinary innovation.
Brillat Savarin Plakette © FBMA-Stiftung
SEETELHOTELS, under the stewardship of Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff, has been a narrative of innovation and exceptional service, setting new benchmarks in the hospitality industry. Since its inception in 1992, SEETELHOTELS epitomises luxury, comfort, and unparalleled guest experiences. Their portfolio proudly encompasses 17 exceptional properties across Usedom. Beyond local success, their reach extends to the sun-kissed shores of Mallorca, where the exquisite Hotel Bahía del Sol in Santa Ponsa beckons discerning travellers.
Brillat Savarin Plakette © FBMA-Stiftung
The Architect of Usedom’s Transformation
The evening commenced with a warm welcome from esteemed TV presenter and actor Werner Schulze-Erdel, setting the stage for an evening of celebration and reflection. Konrad Pötzel, Chairman of the FBMA-Stiftung Food and Beverage Management Association of Germany, delivered an eloquent introductory speech, acknowledging Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff and his family’s remarkable journey in shaping the hospitality landscape. Pötzel praised the ethos of SEETELHOTELS, emphasising its commitment to love, respect, purpose, and quality, encapsulated in the heartfelt motto: “Life loves you!”
Renowned journalist and consultant Kai Diekmann captivated the audience with his profound insights, likening Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff not merely to a hotelier or restaurateur but to a true gastrosophist, echoing the spirit of culinary luminary Jean Anthèlme Brillat-Savarin himself.
Brillat Savarin Plakette © FBMA-Stiftung
SEETELHOTELS’ Legacy of Hospitality Excellence
Reinhard Meyer, Minister for Economic Affairs, Infrastructure, Tourism, and Labour of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, delivered a heartfelt laudatory speech highlighting the profound impact of Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff’s endeavours. Meyer underscored the significant investments made by SEETELHOTELS in preserving Usedom’s historic imperial resort architecture, revitalising the tourism landscape, and stimulating economic growth. Moreover, he emphasised the company’s role in job creation, local procurement, and community engagement, illustrating its multifaceted contributions to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
Flagship of SEETELHOTELS Group, the legendary Ahlbecker Hof. Excellence since 1890. ©Seetelhotels
In his heartfelt acceptance, Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff expressed profound gratitude. He shared his philosophy on hospitality, echoing the sentiments of Brillat-Savarin and acknowledging the collective efforts of his team and the enduring legacy of hospitality excellence at SEETELHOTELS.
“For me, this plaque symbolises more than just an award—it is a testament to the unwavering dedication and passion of our team and a reaffirmation of the outstanding hospitality and dining culture we strive to embody at SEETELHOTELS,” remarked Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff, reflecting on the significance of the Brillat Savarin Plaque.
– Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff
Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff © Seetelhotels
IFBA Celebrates Excellence in Hospitality Industry
As we celebrate this momentous occasion of our fellow members, the International Food & Beverage Association extends heartfelt congratulations to Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff and SEETELHOTELS for embodying the epitome of excellence in the world of hospitality.
In a statement of heartfelt congratulations, Udo Finkenwirth, Founding Member of IFBA and Vice President Europe of the International Food & Beverage Association, expressed his admiration and commendation for Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff’s recent achievement. Representing the IFBA, Finkenwirth highlighted the broader significance of this recognition not only in Germany but in shaping the future of the hospitality industry worldwide:
“On behalf of the International Food & Beverage Association, it is with great pleasure and admiration that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on receiving the esteemed Brillat Savarin Plaque. Your unwavering dedication, vision, and commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry are truly commendable. As a fellow German and Founding Member of IFBA, I am immensely proud to see your remarkable achievements recognised on this prestigious platform. May this award serve as a testament to your outstanding leadership and inspire continued success in shaping the future of hospitality. Here’s to your ethos, passion, and the exceptional standards you and your team uphold at SEETELHOTELS. Wishing you continued success and innovation in all your endeavours. Herzlichen Glückwunsch!”
Hospitality Beyond Borders
Hospitality Beyond Borders
In conclusion, Hai Poh Cheong, the President of the International Food and Beverage Association, extends its sincerest congratulations to Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff on this well-deserved recognition.
“Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff’s leadership and dedication exemplify the values we hold dear in the hospitality industry. As we honour his achievements, let us also look forward to the continued growth and innovation he inspires within our community of Hospitality Beyond Borders. Here’s to a future filled with excellence, collaboration, and countless opportunities to celebrate success together. Join us in applauding Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff as he joins the ranks of Brillat Savarin plaque awardees—a true champion of hospitality.”
