Hochtief to Build Germany's New €230M Nutrition Research Hub in Kiel

A major new research facility will be built in Kiel to serve as Germany's leading centre for nutrition and food science. Hochtief has secured the contract to design, construct, and operate the 65,000-square-foot site. The project marks a significant step in consolidating existing MRI locations across Kiel and Hamburg.

The Federal Institute for Real Estate (BImA) awarded the contract under a public-private partnership (PPP). Hochtief will handle the entire project management, from planning and construction to long-term maintenance. The deal also includes a 30-year operational commitment.

The new facility will replace three current sites run by the Max Rubner Institute—two in Kiel and one in Hamburg. Positioned next to Kiel University, it aims to strengthen regional research ties. Hochtief's CEO, Juan Santamaría, highlighted the project's role in boosting the company's presence in health and biopharma sectors.

Construction is set to finish by autumn 2028. The total contract value reaches around €230 million, covering all phases of development and upkeep.

Once completed, the facility will centralise MRI's research efforts in a single, advanced location. The long-term partnership ensures sustained support for Germany's scientific and nutritional studies. Hochtief's involvement reinforces the country's reputation as a key research hub.