Some stories don’t just inspire us - they remind us of what truly matters. And as Team Rynkeby celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, this message feels more relevant than ever.
At Eckes-Granini, a family-owned company, we believe that success is more than growth or numbers. It’s about living our values in a way that future generations can look to and learn from. Team Rynkeby gives us the opportunity to do exactly that - by showing that giving back, building community, and acting with humanity are what counts.
This remarkable journey started with a small group of passionate employees at Rynkeby Foods (today part of Eckes Granini), whose vision 25 years ago sparked a movement that is so much more than cycling across Europe.
Year by year, we deeply admire the incredible commitment of our yellow-clad riders - months of preparation, countless hours on the road, and the determination to overcome every challenge for a greater purpose. At its heart, this is about riding for a cause that truly matters: supporting children with critical illnesses and their families. Every kilometer, every drop of sweat, and every donation adds up to something priceless - hope.
Our family’s personal commitment to this cause runs deep and we feel extremely lucky to be part of this journey ourselves. My cousin Alexander has joined the tour seven times - as rider, service team member and country manager in Switzerland. I had the privilege of supporting Team Munich on their first tour as part of the service crew last year.
What an experience it was! From early mornings loading supplies to making sure the riders had everything they needed during the toughest stages, it was pure teamwork from start to finish. Being part of the service crew meant constantly staying one step ahead - preparing food and drinks, coordinating with support vehicles, solving small challenges on the spot, and keeping morale high when fatigue set in. What struck me most was how naturally everyone supported one another. The mix of energy, laughter, and shared determination created a spirit that carried us through each day and showed me what real community looks like in action.
The highlight of the tour was, of course, the riders entering the Vélodrome in Paris. Families and supporters lined the track, waving vibrant flags, and the sound of applause mixed with joyful shouts created a wave of emotion that swept through every rider. It wasn’t just the finish line – it was a celebration of unity, resilience, and shared purpose.
This year, Team Rynkeby celebrates 25 years — a milestone that speaks volumes. Happy Birthday, Team Rynkeby! Over a quarter of a century, this initiative has raised over 100 million Euros for children in need and inspired thousands to turn empathy into action. That is far more than charity – that is legacy.
So why does Team Rynkeby matter to us, the Eckes Granini family? Because it proves that when people unite for a purpose, they create real change — today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Christina Oelbermann,
family shareholder at Eckes Granini and service crew Team Rynkeby Munich 2025
