Award of the 67th Brillat Savarin Plakette – Klaus-Günther Wiesler, Mitte Rolf Seelige-Steinhoff, Konrad Pötzel © Mandy Knuth

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.

Brillat Savarin Plakette  © Mandy Knuth

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.”

Check Out More News & Events

Launch of the 2025 Global Hotel HAPA® Platinum Awards

Celebrating Excellence in Hospitality and Cultural TourismThe world of hospitality is once again set to shine, as the prestigious HAPA® Awards return in 2024 to honor outstanding achievements in cultural tourism and hospitality. Widely regarded as the 'Oscars' of the...

The Future of Chinese Hospitality: National Brand Hotels Redefine Luxury and Culture

A Major Milestone: The Release of the "Chinese National Brand Hotel" Evaluation ResultsOn September 27, 2024, the Boao Global Tourism Ecology Conference became the stage for a transformative moment in China’s hotel industry: the unveiling of the first-ever "Chinese...

Shaping Global Tourism: IFBA’s Leadership in the Strategic Forum on Ethnic Culture and Tourism

Shaping Global Tourism: IFBA’s Leadership in the Strategic Forum on Ethnic Culture and TourismThe Strategic Forum on Integrated Development of Ethnic Culture and Tourism, held as part of the 2024 Boao Global Tourism Ecology Conference from September 26 to 28 in...

First Boao Global Ethnic Cultural Tourism Industry Development

A New Era of Tourism: The 2024 Boao Global Tourism Ecology Conference and First Boao Global Ethnic Cultural Tourism Industry Development Conference Kick Off in Spectacular Fashion September 27th marked a momentous occasion in the world of tourism, as the 2024 Boao...

IFBA Highlights Milestones at the 2024 Boao Global Conference

IFBA Highlights Milestones at the 2024 Boao Global Conference on Ethnic Culture and Tourism Industry DevelopmentThe International Food and Beverage Association (IFBA) is proud to share the successful outcomes of its participation in the 2024 Boao Global Conference on...

MIFB 2024: A Catalyst for Growth in the F&B Industry

Exploring the Future of Food and Beverage: Unveiling MIFB 2024The Malaysian International Food & Beverage Trade Fair (MIFB) returns to the heart of Kuala Lumpur from July 17-19, 2024, promising to be an even larger and more vibrant affair than ever before. As the...

Celebrating Creativity and Collaboration on World Chocolate Day 2024!

A Global CelebrationIn celebration of World Chocolate Day 2024, we are thrilled to share that the International Food & Beverage Association hosted a special virtual meeting. Esteemed collaborators, supporters, and patrons from around the globe joined this festive...

Highlights of IFBA Roundtable Talk Show 2024

IFBA Roundtable Kickoff: Embracing Innovation and Leadership The IFBA Roundtable Talk Show 2024, held at the esteemed Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore, was a special event of the inaugural SIGEP Asia 2024 and the 5th edition of Restaurant...

The Grand Opening of SIGEP Asia and Restaurant Asia’s 5th Edition

The inaugural SIGEP Asia 2024 and the 5th edition of Restaurant Asia came to a close with resounding success The mega platform welcomed more than 11,000 F&B industry players, trade visitors from Singapore, ASEAN and around the world Europe's crème de la crème...

Highlights from the Singapore Cambodia Business Forum 2024

A New Chapter in Singapore-Cambodia Business Relations: The Cambodia Singapore Business Forum 2024 has successfully concluded, marking a significant milestone in the journey of economic cooperation between two dynamic nations. Hosted by the proactive Singapore...
Translate

Join Our Newsletter

A journey of growth towards hospitality. Join our mailing list for upcoming events, industry news and insightful professional resources.

You have been successfully subscribed!