At BENEO, we all share the same goal: contributing to better nutrition and health. We believe that providing nutritious, appealing and science-backed ingredients is only possible on a healthy planet. That’s why we strive to make our entire value chain sustainable – from farm to fork. A key pillar of BENEO’s sustainability strategy, the Healthy Planet Plan, is to reduce our environmental impact. Alongside many other initiatives, this includes lowering CO₂ emissions.

When looking for ways to achieve this, our production processes are of course first priority – and our sustainability and operations colleagues are working on a range of corresponding initiatives. Business travel, however, is an area where every colleague can individually make a difference and actively contribute to BENEO’s mission of shaping a healthier future. Even small choices can have a considerable impact. As part of the BENEO team attending Vitafoods Europe 2025 in Barcelona this May, I decided to try a different approach. No flights, no jet lag, no last-minute stress about liquids in a plastic bag. Instead: a calm and comfortable train journey, completed with croissants and a surprising sense of peace. The result? I arrived more relaxed, more productive and more in tune with our company’s commitment to sustainability.

Route to the Mediterranean, the Gentle Way

Let me walk you through my itinerary:

• Mannheim → Paris (non-stop, comfy and fast)
• A quick metro hop through Paris (not the worst place for a layover 😉)
• Paris → Barcelona (non-stop again, with picturesque views along the way)

It wasn’t just transportation. It was a traveling experience. With a fresh French croissant in one hand and my laptop in the other, I was able to work uninterrupted while the landscape slid past – vineyards, mountains, sunflower fields… and not a single security announcement.

Business as Usual – But on Tracks

Yes, the train took a bit longer than flying. But here’s the thing: once you factor in the trip to the airport, early arrival, long queues, the boarding shuffle and the disembarkation delay – not to mention the mental fatigue – train travel starts to look a lot more efficient.

I spent my travel time finishing slides, catching up on emails and even carving out moments of creative thinking (because nothing beats new scenery for fresh ideas). There’s something deeply luxurious about sitting at a spacious table, sipping hot tea and letting your brain breathe – all while still being productive. And speaking of efficiency: at nearly 300 km/h, the train made serious progress without ever feeling rushed. It’s impressive to cover that much distance so smoothly.

One Train Ticket, One Lower Footprint

But the biggest win? The environment.

Transportation is a major contributor to CO₂ emissions. By opting for rail instead of air travel, I significantly reduced my carbon footprint. And when you’re representing a company like BENEO – where sustainability is more than just a buzzword – it feels good to walk the talk (or ride the rails, in this case).

BENEO’s sustainability strategy “Healthy Planet Plan” isn’t only about what and how we produce – it’s about how we do business. And that includes how we travel. Whether it’s for trade shows, customer meetings or internal team gatherings, every BENEO colleague can contribute to this ambition. So, hopping on the train wasn’t just about getting from A to B, it was a more thoughtful and sustainable way to travel.

Travel Perks They Don’t Mention in Brochures

Let’s be honest: business travel can sometimes feel like a blur of terminals, taxis and tired eyes. But train travel changed that for me.

• Freedom to move: I stretched my legs, walked past the dining section and wasn’t trapped in seat 18A.
• Scenery that stuns: The moment we cruised past the Pyrenees, I paused my work, stared out the window and just took it all in.
• Guilt-free comfort: There’s a unique joy in knowing you’re doing something good for the planet, without sacrificing convenience.

And yes, I took the obligatory picture: laptop by the window and croissant in frame.

BENEO’s Commitment Begins With Us

I’ll be the first to admit: it’s easy to talk about sustainability in strategy documents and presentations. But real change happens in the small, everyday decisions – like skipping the plane and taking the train. Like carrying your reusable coffee cup. Like making choices that reflect our planet-positive mission even when no one’s watching.

So, if you’re planning your next business trip, consider this your gentle nudge: take the scenic route. You might just discover that it’s better for your well-being, your work and yes, the world too.

One Journey at a Time

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