Schwarzwälder Bote Ownership and Corporate Structure
The Schwarzwälder Bote is a prominent media entity with a complex corporate architecture designed to integrate traditional print journalism with modern digital and audio services. Operated by the Schwarzwälder Bote Mediengesellschaft mbH, the organization functions as a key component of a larger regional media network in Germany.
Key Facts
- Managing Director: Carsten Huber.
- Publisher: Richard Rebmann.
- Headquarters: Oberndorf am Neckar.
- Parent Company: Medienholding Süd GmbH (MSG) holds a 90% stake.
- Ultimate Majority Owner: Südwestdeutsche Medien Holding GmbH (SWMH) owns 82% of MSG.
- Diversification: Includes daily newspapers, radio, advertising, and printing services.
Corporate Ownership and Governance
The publishing house, Schwarzwälder Bote Mediengesellschaft mbH (HRB 480886 AG Stuttgart), is primarily controlled by the Stuttgart-based Medienholding Süd GmbH (MSG), which holds 90% of the capital. The remaining 10% is held by Württemberger Zeitung GmbH. The company is currently led by managing director Carsten Huber, while Richard Rebmann serves as a partner in Schwarzwälder Bote GmbH & Co. KG and as the publisher.
A significant structural milestone occurred on October 15, 2008, when a profit and loss transfer agreement was established with MSG. This alignment integrates the publishing house into the Schwarzwälder Bote Mediengruppe, a division of the larger Südwestdeutsche Medien Holding GmbH (SWMH).
The Schwarzwälder Bote Mediengruppe Ecosystem
Beyond its flagship daily newspaper, the media group operates as a diversified service provider. By consolidating various business units, the group manages a wide array of media operations, including:
- Advertising and online services.
- Telephone marketing and corporate publications.
- Professional printing and distribution logistics.
The administrative and editorial heart of the operation is located in Oberndorf am Neckar. The group further expanded its reach in 2015 by incorporating the radio station Das neue Radio Neckarburg into its portfolio.
The Role of SWMH and Legacy Ownership
The broader ownership chain is anchored by Südwestdeutsche Medien Holding GmbH (SWMH), which is the majority owner of MSG with an 82% capital share. SWMH acts as the overarching entity for several publishing houses and media companies.
Legacy interests are maintained through Black Bote GmbH & Co. KG (HRA 480264 AG Stuttgart), representing the heirs of the founder, Wilhelm Brandecker. This entity holds an 18% stake in Medienholding Süd GmbH (MSG) and maintains a capital share in SWMH as a member of the Württemberg publishers group.
| Entity | Stake/Role | Parent/Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| Schwarzwälder Bote Mediengesellschaft mbH | Operating Publisher | Medienholding Süd GmbH (90%) |
| Medienholding Süd GmbH (MSG) | Holding Company | SWMH (82%) |
| Südwestdeutsche Medien Holding GmbH (SWMH) | Majority Owner | Württemberg publishers group |
| Black Bote GmbH & Co. KG | Minority Owner (18% of MSG) | Heirs of Wilhelm Brandecker |
| Württemberger Zeitung GmbH | Minority Owner (10% of Publisher) | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current managing director of the Schwarzwälder Bote?
The managing director is Carsten Huber.
Where is the editorial team based?
The administration and editorial team are located in Oberndorf am Neckar.
What other media formats does the group operate besides newspapers?
Since 2015, the group has included the radio station Das neue Radio Neckarburg, alongside online services and corporate publications.
What is the relationship between MSG and SWMH?
Südwestdeutsche Medien Holding GmbH (SWMH) is the majority owner of Medienholding Süd GmbH (MSG), holding 82% of its capital.
Who founded the Black Forest messenger?
The founder was Wilhelm Brandecker, whose heirs are represented by Black Bote GmbH & Co. KG.