Early Life
Clemens Tönnies was born in Rheda, Germany, on May 27, 1956. He grew up with six siblings in a family deeply rooted in the butchery trade. His father was a butcher, which influenced Tönnies's early career path. He completed an apprenticeship in butchery and business, setting the foundation for his future in the meat industry.
Rise to Success
Tönnies joined his brother Bernd in the family business, which was founded in 1971 as a meat and sausage wholesaler. The company, B. & C. Tönnies Fleischwerk GmbH & Co. KG (now Tönnies Holding), rapidly grew to become a significant meat producer in Europe. After his brother Bernd's death in 1994, Clemens took over the company's leadership.
Key Business Strategies
Under Clemens Tönnies's leadership, the Tönnies Group expanded its operations significantly. The company focused on the slaughtering, butchering, and processing of pigs, sows, and cattle, becoming a market leader in Germany for pork. The group expanded internationally, establishing production sites and offices in multiple countries, including Denmark. In 2025 the company is rebranding as Premium Food Group.
Philanthropy
Clemens Tönnies has been involved in philanthropic activities. He founded Aktion Kinderträume e.V. in 2004, which, under the patronage of his wife, supports seriously ill children and their families.