We're a family business, but we're different!
Katrin and Frank Eberhard with their two sons
“The spätzle could be a little softer,” remarks Katrin Eberhard with a smile as she sits in the new bistro in the Immenstaad industrial park, enjoying her lunch. Today’s special features meatballs in a cream sauce with kohlrabi and handmade spätzle. “It’s just important to me that everyone enjoys the food,” she says, taking her personal quality control very seriously. “Homemade” is written in large letters on the sign above the bistro’s entrance door. A large, bright bar with various food options kept warm in hot plates greets you as soon as you walk in, before you enter a modern and cozy dining room, which is well-filled at lunchtime.
Since November, the event catering company Klink-Eberhard has been operating out of its new premises here in the industrial park in Immenstaad. “We’ve invested a lot in modernizing the kitchen, and we cook everything fresh and - as the name suggests - homemade,” explains Katrin Eberhard. Six employees work in the kitchen every day, with another ten in the office. A total of 40 employees work full-time at the company, though that number can easily reach 470 during major events, such as those held at the trade fair grounds. “We had a situation like that in 2024. Of course, it was a challenge just to get that many people together in the first place,” she recalls. Klaus Wellmann, managing director of the trade fair, also confirms just how challenging it actually is for a caterer to organize and execute such large-scale events: “For us at Messe Friedrichshafen, our partnership with Klink-Eberhard is invaluable. Our events on the grounds can only be managed with reliable and experienced partners - from staff planning all the way to the precise catering of thousands of visitors. We know whats beeing accomplished behind the scenes here, and we’re grateful to have such a reliable and professional partner by our side.”
First Catering Appearance at the IBO in 1972
Katrin and Frank Eberhard are now the third generation to run the Klink-Eberhard event catering business. What began in 1969 when Simon Klink founded a butcher shop has since grown into a thriving company. “My grandfather made his first appearance at the IBO in Friedrichshafen in 1972,” says Frank Eberhard. “That appearance was pivotal for our future at the trade show.” Today, the Eberhard family is the main caterer for Messe Friedrichshafen and operates all the bistros, shops, and food trucks on the grounds. “Our stands offer everything from savory snacks to freshly prepared meals and sweet treats. The currywurst pan is and remains our absolute top seller,” reports Frank Eberhard. Up to three metric tons are sold during an event such as Tuning World Bodensee. In addition to the popular sausage, the menu also includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Regional Ingredients and Nurturing Partnerships
When preparing meals, great emphasis is placed on artisanal food production. While Managing Director Frank Eberhard is primarily responsible for the kitchen and technical equipment, Katrin focuses on marketing and financial management. “All of our dishes are prepared with great attention to detail in our commercial kitchen here in Immenstaad,” the two explain. Another central component of the company’s philosophy is fostering partnerships. “We work closely with suppliers from the region and with Messe Friedrichshafen.” This collaboration not only ensures the freshness and quality of the food but also supports the regional economy. The spirit of community is also alive within the company. “We’re a family business, but with a twist,” says Katrin Eberhard. In fact, it’s not uncommon for several members of the same family to work at the company. “There’s hardly anyone here whose mom, dad, sister, brother, uncle, friend, or even cousin isn’t also part of the business.” Moreover, these employees have remained loyal to the company for years, which creates a special atmosphere. And the future of event catering also seems secure: “Our sons are eager to join the family business,” reports Katrin Eberhard. “Our sons are eager to join the family business,” says Katrin Eberhard. “This means nothing stands in the way of continuing our successful partnership with Messe Friedrichshafen in the future.”
