Tradition Meets Innovation: The Mastery of Fashion, Design and Technology

Toni Garrn: From Supermodel to Entrepreneur

Toni Garrn, the German supermodel known for her work with some of the most prestigious fashion houses, is making waves in a new arena: sustainable fashion. After years of gracing the world’s top runways, Garrn has channeled her passion for social impact into her latest venture, Super Flea Market. This online platform is more than just a marketplace for preloved luxury fashion; it’s a mission-driven enterprise where 50-90% of the proceeds go to charitable organizations within Garrn’s NGO partner network. “I wanted to create a space where fashion lovers could find unique pieces and simultaneously support meaningful causes,” Garrn explains.

Super Flea Market stands out not only for its charitable contributions but also for the stories behind the fashion items on offer. Garrn’s collection includes exclusive pieces from the private closets of celebrities, including iconic items like the Gianvito Rossi sandals worn by Beyoncé. Her commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is evident in every aspect of the platform, making it a model for modern, conscious consumerism.

Looking to the future, Garrn is focused on expanding Super Flea Market’s impact globally. “It’s not just about selling clothes; it’s about creating a movement that promotes the circular economy and supports social and environmental justice initiatives,” she says. As she navigates her entrepreneurial journey, Garrn remains grounded in the values of reliability and quality that are “typically German.” Her ability to merge fashion with philanthropy is setting a new standard in the industry, proving that style and substance can indeed go hand in hand.

Oetker Collection: A Legacy of Luxury

The Oetker Collection, renowned for its exceptional luxury hotels, epitomizes the fine art of hospitality. With roots tracing back to 1893, when Dr. August Oetker first introduced his groundbreaking baking powder, the Oetker family has since expanded its empire into the realm of luxury hotels. Today, the collection includes iconic properties like Eden Rock in St. Barths and the newly opened La Palma in Capri. “Each of our hotels has a soul, created by people. Our teams share a strong family spirit, have a real passion for being hosts and genuinely care about our guests,” says Timo Grünert, CEO of Oetker Collection.

The collection’s properties are not just places to stay—they are experiences that combine history, culture, and impeccable service. Whether it’s the serene luxury of Jumby Bay in Antigua or the chic elegance of The Vineta in Palm Beach, every Oetker hotel is a masterpiece in its own right. These hotels are deeply rooted in their locations, offering guests a unique connection to the local culture while ensuring the highest standards of comfort and service. “We strive for perfection in everything we do, from the meticulous restoration of historic properties to the unparalleled service our guests receive,” Grünert adds.

What sets the Oetker Collection apart is its commitment to preserving the heritage and character of each property, while also innovating to meet the needs of today’s discerning travelers. The recent renovation of Eden Rock, for example, transformed the iconic Caribbean hotel into a modern luxury destination while retaining its historic charm. As Grünert puts it, “Our hotels are about more than just luxury; they are about creating lasting memories for our guests, with a touch of timeless elegance that is quintessentially Oetker.”

Uli Maybach: Innovating with Tradition

Ulrich Schmid-Maybach, the great-grandson of Wilhelm Maybach—the visionary engineer behind the first modern automobile—is continuing his family’s legacy in a way that blends tradition with forward-thinking innovation. As the driving force behind the Wilhelm & Karl Maybach Foundation, Uli is committed to mentoring the next generation of innovators, much like his great-grandfather was mentored by Gottlieb Daimler. “Mentorship has always been at the core of the Maybach legacy. It’s about passing down not just knowledge, but the spirit of innovation and the courage to take risks,” Uli explains.

The Maybach Foundation’s mission is to provide young talents with the opportunities they need to thrive, whether in engineering, arts, or social entrepreneurship. The Foundation’s programs are designed to be deeply personal and tailored to the individual needs of each mentee, reflecting the values of precision and care that have long been associated with the Maybach name. 

Uli’s work is a testament to the enduring relevance of the Maybach ethos in today’s world. By focusing on mentorship and innovation, he is not only preserving his family’s legacy but also adapting it to meet the challenges of the 21st century. “The spirit of innovation that my great -grandfather embodied is more important now than ever. We need to encourage creativity and bold thinking in everything we do,” Uli concludes. Through his foundation, Uli Maybach is ensuring that the Maybach legacy continues to inspire and lead, just as it has for over a century.

The Essence of 'Made in Germany'

In this issue of GG Magazine, we delve into what makes “Made in Germany” a global symbol of quality and precision. German entrepreneurs are known for their meticulous attention to detail, a trait that has propelled brands like Engel & Völkers to the forefront of the international real estate market. “Our services, much like the products labeled ‘Made in Germany,’ are systematic, standardized in quality, and extremely client-oriented,” says Christian Völkers, Founder of Engel & Völkers. This relentless pursuit of perfection is a hallmark of German craftsmanship, whether it’s in engineering, design, or real estate.

The “Made in Germany” label has a storied history, originally introduced in Britain in the 19th century as a way to protect domestic markets from foreign competition. Ironically, it quickly became synonymous with high-quality products, setting German-made goods apart on the global stage. Today, this label continues to carry significant weight, symbolizing reliability, innovation, and excellence. As Völkers puts it, “We take great pride in living up to the expectations that come with the ‘Made in Germany’ label. It’s about delivering the best, every single time.”

This issue also explores how these typically German traits—reliability, precision, and a commitment to quality—are reflected in the success stories of our featured personalities and brands. Whether it’s Toni Garrn’s meticulous approach to her entrepreneurial ventures, the Oetker Collection’s unwavering commitment to excellence, or Uli Maybach’s innovative mentorship programs, the German influence is clear. In a world where speed often trumps quality, these stories remind us of the enduring value of taking the time to do things right. As Völkers aptly quotes Alfred Herrhausen, “Most of the time that we waste is the result of not thinking things through.”

For all of these articles and more, you can view the full issue here. Enjoy your read.