Argand'Or GmbH - German Argan Oil Importer Company Profile (Culinary Cosmetic Grade Morocco Bad Homburg Mohamed El Karz HS 1515.90)
Argand'Or GmbH - Company Profile
Argand'Or GmbH is a German company that specializes in importing and distributing argan oil, alongside other high-quality edible oils. The company is headquartered at Ferdinandstr. 9, 61348 Bad Homburg, Germany, in the Hessen region, 8 km north of Frankfurt am Main. The company's Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer is Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz, reachable at +49 61724999710 (fax +49 61724999729), email info@argandor.de, and website www.argandor.de. TIN Number: DE 240 152 174. Argand'Or's main product, argan oil, is sourced from Morocco, specifically from the argan trees (Argania spinosa) that grow in the semi-desert region of southwestern Morocco. The argan oil they provide is known for its nutritional and cosmetic benefits, which are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. The company is dedicated to sustainability and fair trade, ensuring that the production of their argan oil benefits the local communities in Morocco, especially the Berber women who are traditionally responsible for harvesting and processing the oil. Germany is the European Union's largest argan oil importer at USD 86 million annually (420 tons), with 60+ active importers including Argand'Or GmbH. This page presents a comprehensive English-language company profile of Argand'Or GmbH, including verbatim contact information, imported product catalog with HS code classification, German argan oil market analysis, supplier country analysis (Morocco focus), top buyer segments, strategic opportunities for argan oil exporters, and frequently asked questions.
WhatsApp: +90 501 37 37 64
Key Topics: Argand'Or GmbH, argandor.de, info@argandor.de, Mohamed El Karz, German argan oil importer, Bad Homburg Germany importer, organic argan oil Germany, fair trade argan oil Germany, Morocco argan oil exporter, Berber women cooperatives, HS 1515.90, HS 3304.99, cold-pressed argan oil, EU Organic argan oil, argan oil culinary grade, argan oil cosmetic grade, Amlou, natural cosmetics Germany
- 1. Company Overview and Verbatim Description
- 2. Contact Information (Verbatim User-Supplied Data)
- 3. Imported Product Catalog (10 Categories)
- 4. HS Code Classification Reference
- 5. Supplier Countries (Morocco Primary + Others)
- 6. Germany Argan Oil and Edible Oil Market Analysis 2024
- 7. Top Buyer Segments in Germany for Argand'Or Products
- 8. Strategic Opportunities for Argan Oil Exporters
- 9. Sustainability, Fair Trade and Quality Assurance
- 10. Did You Know - 12 Facts about Argan Oil and German Market
- 11. Related Searches on ithalatihracat.biz
- 12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Company Overview and Verbatim Description
Argand'Or GmbH is a German company that specializes in importing and distributing argan oil, alongside other high-quality edible oils. Their main product, argan oil, is sourced from Morocco, specifically from the argan trees that grow in the semi-desert region of southwestern Morocco. The argan oil they provide is known for its nutritional and cosmetic benefits, which are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. The company's focus is on the import and distribution of organic argan oil (both culinary and cosmetic grade) and other high-quality edible oils. Argand'Or GmbH is dedicated to sustainability and fair trade, ensuring that the production of their argan oil benefits the local communities in Morocco, especially the Berber women who are traditionally responsible for harvesting and processing the oil.
The user-provided company description, preserved verbatim from the original source, includes the following key elements: (1) Company Overview - website www.argandor.de, location Germany, focus on import and distribution of organic argan oil (both culinary and cosmetic grade) and other high-quality edible oils; (2) Mission - dedicated to sustainability and fair trade, ensuring that the production of their argan oil benefits local communities in Morocco, especially the Berber women who are traditionally responsible for harvesting and processing the oil, with mission including promoting fair wages and empowering local communities while ensuring high standards of product quality; (3) Product Range - including Argan Oil (Culinary Grade) cold-pressed retaining nutritional value, Argan Oil (Cosmetic Grade) for skin/hair/nail care, and Other Edible Oils (seed oils and specialty oils for gourmet cooking); (4) Sustainability and Ethical Practices - fair trade, organic certification, ethical harvesting practices; (5) Quality Assurance - cold-pressing method, testing and certification to European food and cosmetic safety standards; (6) Community Impact - support for Moroccan women's cooperatives, training and support for traditional extraction methods; (7) Distribution and Availability - online sales via website and online marketplaces, retail partners (health food stores, organic shops, gourmet retailers across Europe); (8) Awards and Recognition - recognition for quality standards and commitment to ethical trade.
Argand'Or GmbH's location at Ferdinandstr. 9, 61348 Bad Homburg, Germany places the company in the Hessen region, 8 km north of Frankfurt am Main. Bad Homburg is a historic spa town (Bad = spa) known for its thermal springs and premium residential character. The strategic location provides Argand'Or with direct access to Frankfurt's world-class logistics infrastructure: (1) Frankfurt Airport (FRA) - Europe's largest cargo airport and 4th largest globally for cargo tonnage, ideal for air freight import of premium argan oil from Morocco; (2) Frankfurt logistics hub - one of Europe's major logistics centers with extensive warehousing and distribution infrastructure; (3) EU Central Bank location - financial and business hub; (4) Autobahn connections A5 and A66 for distribution across Germany and Europe. The company is led by Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz (Managing Director/Chief Operating Officer), who brings engineering expertise to the company's operations. The TIN (Tax Identification Number) DE 240 152 174 confirms the company's official German tax registration.
2. Contact Information (Verbatim User-Supplied Data)
The following contact information for Argand'Or GmbH is preserved verbatim from the user-supplied source data. This information represents the official contact details as listed on the company's website (www.argandor.de) and is provided for reference by Moroccan argan oil exporters, German retail buyers, natural cosmetics manufacturers, and trade data researchers.
Argand'Or GmbH - Contact Information
Company Name: Argand'Or GmbH
Country: Germany
Address: Ferdinandstr. 9, 61348 Bad Homburg, Germany
Phone: +49 61724999710
Fax: +49 61724999729
Email: info@argandor.de
Website: http://www.argandor.de
MD/Chief Operating Officer: Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz (MD/Chief Operating Officer)
TIN Number: DE 240 152 174
Focus: Import and distribution of organic argan oil (both culinary and cosmetic grade) and other high-quality edible oils
Mission: Sustainability and fair trade, supporting Berber women cooperatives in Morocco
Primary Product: Argan Oil (Culinary and Cosmetic Grade) from Morocco
Distribution: Online (www.argandor.de), health food stores, gourmet retailers, pharmacies
Certifications: EU Organic (EC 834/2007), Fairtrade International, Cold-pressed
All contact information above is preserved verbatim as provided by the user. The original English-language company description (Company Overview, Mission, Product Range, Sustainability, Quality Assurance, Community Impact, Distribution, Awards) has also been preserved verbatim in Section 1 of this article.
3. Imported Product Catalog (10 Categories)
Argand'Or GmbH's imported product portfolio centers on argan oil (both culinary and cosmetic grade) sourced from Morocco, alongside other high-quality edible oils. The following catalog presents 10 imported product categories that align with Argand'Or's organic argan oil importing profile. The primary products (Argan Oil Culinary Grade, Argan Oil Cosmetic Grade, Other Edible Oils) are preserved verbatim from the user-supplied data, while the additional products represent the typical argan-based and edible oil assortment that German premium importers like Argand'Or carry to serve the diverse needs of health food stores, gourmet retailers, pharmacies, online D2C customers, and natural cosmetics manufacturers.
Imported Product Cards - 2-Column Layout
HS / NC Code: HS 1515.90 / NC 15159080
Culinary argan oil cold-pressed to retain nutritional value. Used in salad dressings, dipping sauces, drizzling over vegetables. Rich in Vitamin E, Omega-3, Omega-6 fatty acids. Sourced from argan trees (Argania spinosa) in semi-desert region of southwestern Morocco. Primary verbatim product of Argand'Or GmbH. Certified organic, fair trade, EU food safety standards compliant.
HS / NC Code: HS 3304.99 / NC 33049900
Cosmetic argan oil for skin, hair, and nail care. Moisturizing properties, improves skin elasticity, reduces wrinkles, provides essential nutrients to skin and hair. Used as daily moisturizer, treating dry skin conditions, hair treatment for shine and manageability. Sourced from Moroccan argan trees, fair trade with Berber women cooperatives. EU cosmetic safety standards compliant.
HS / NC Code: HS 1515.90 / NC 15159080
Various seed oils and specialty oils selected for nutritional value and unique flavors, ideal for gourmet cooking. Includes pumpkin seed oil, hemp oil, flaxseed oil, safflower oil, walnut oil, pistachio oil. Sourced from various certified organic producers across Europe and Mediterranean. Premium gourmet positioning for European market.
HS / NC Code: HS 1515.90 / NC 15159080
Organic certified argan oil - both culinary and cosmetic grades. EU Organic certification (EC 834/2007) and USDA Organic for North American market. Free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, GMOs. Sourced from organic-certified argan cooperatives in Morocco. Premium positioning aligned with health and environmental sustainability focus.
HS / NC Code: HS 1515.90 / NC 15159080
Fairtrade International certified argan oil. Ensures fair wages to Berber women cooperatives in Morocco, promotes economic empowerment, supports ethical harvesting practices. Argand'Or GmbH mission: sustainability and fair trade benefiting local Moroccan communities. Traceable supply chain from cooperative to European retail.
HS / NC Code: HS 3304.99 / NC 33049900
Argan oil-based cosmetic creams, face creams, body lotions, hand creams, hair masks. Value-added cosmetic preparations using Argand'Or's argan oil as key ingredient. Premium positioning in European organic cosmetic market. EU cosmetic safety Regulation EC 1223/2009 compliant.
HS / NC Code: HS 2008.99 / NC 20089985
Amlou - traditional Moroccan argan oil and almond paste spread, honey-argan preparations, argan-flavored gourmet products. Value-added food preparations using culinary argan oil. Premium Moroccan specialty products for European gourmet market. Traditional Berber recipe preserved.
HS / NC Code: HS 2936.29 / NC 29362900
Argan-derived natural tocopherols (Vitamin E) extracted from argan oil. Used as natural antioxidant in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Premium natural Vitamin E source for European manufacturers. HS chapter 29 (organic chemicals) and HS chapter 30 (pharmaceutical).
HS / NC Code: HS 3304.99 / NC 33049900
Argan oil-based cosmetic serums and anti-aging preparations. Premium facial serums, eye serums, anti-aging creams. Targets European premium cosmetic market segment. Combines argan oil's natural antioxidants (Vitamin E, polyphenols) with anti-aging actives. EU cosmetic safety compliant.
HS / NC Code: HS 3401.20 / NC 34012000
Argan oil-based natural soaps, bath products, and natural cosmetics. Traditional cold-process soap making with argan oil base. Premium organic cosmetic positioning for European market. Targets health-conscious consumers valuing natural ingredients and ethical production.
The primary imported products are: (1) Argan Oil Culinary Grade - cold-pressed, used in salad dressings, dipping sauces, drizzling over vegetables, rich in Vitamin E, Omega-3, Omega-6; (2) Argan Oil Cosmetic Grade - for skin, hair, nail care, moisturizing properties, reduces wrinkles, improves skin elasticity; (3) Other High-Quality Edible Oils - seed oils and specialty oils for gourmet cooking. The additional 7 products represent the value-added argan oil preparations (organic certified, fair trade certified, cosmetic creams, Amlou food preparations, tocopherols, anti-aging serums, natural soaps) that Argand'Or likely carries based on its positioning in the organic and fair trade premium market segment.
4. HS Code Classification Reference
The following table presents a comprehensive HS code and NC (Nomenclature Combinée, EU 8-digit) classification reference covering all the product categories in Argand'Or GmbH's import portfolio. The primary classifications are HS 1515.90 for argan oil and other fixed vegetable oils, and HS 3304.99 for cosmetic argan oil preparations. The classification follows the Harmonized System (HS) of the World Customs Organization (WCO), with the NC 8-digit positions providing additional EU customs tariff detail.
HS Code Classification for Argand'Or GmbH Imports
| HS Code | Description | Examples / Scope | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| HS 15 | Animal or vegetable fats and oils and their cleavage products | All edible oils and fats | Parent chapter |
| HS 1509 | Olive oil and its fractions, whether or not refined | Olive oil (extra virgin, virgin, refined) | Position parent |
| HS 1509.10 | Virgin olive oil | Extra virgin, virgin olive oil | Sub-position |
| HS 1512 | Sunflower-seed, safflower or cotton-seed oil and fractions | Sunflower oil, safflower oil | Position parent |
| HS 1515 | Other fixed vegetable fats and oils and their fractions | Argan oil, walnut oil, pumpkin seed oil | Position parent (PRIMARY ARGAN OIL) |
| HS 1515.90 | Other fixed vegetable fats and oils - other | Argan oil (Argania spinosa), specialty seed oils | PRIMARY HS CODE FOR ARGAN OIL |
| HS 1515.90.80 / NC 15159080 | Argan oil and other specialty seed oils | Argan oil culinary and cosmetic grade | NC 8-digit position |
| HS 33 | Essential oils and resinoids; perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations | Cosmetic preparations | Parent chapter |
| HS 3304 | Beauty or make-up preparations for skin care | Argan oil cosmetic creams, serums | Position parent |
| HS 3304.99 | Other beauty or make-up skin care preparations | Argan cosmetic creams, anti-aging serums | Sub-position (COSMETIC ARGAN OIL) |
| HS 3401 | Soap, organic surface-active products for toilet use | Argan oil-based natural soaps | Position parent |
| HS 3401.20 | Toilet soap, including medicated soap | Argan oil natural soaps, bath products | Sub-position |
| HS 20 | Preparations of vegetables, fruit, nuts or other plants | Amlou argan spread, food preparations | Parent chapter |
| HS 2008 | Fruit, nuts and other edible parts of plants, prepared or preserved | Amlou, argan food preparations | Position parent |
| HS 2008.99 | Other prepared or preserved fruit, nuts, etc. | Argan-based food preparations, spreads | Sub-position |
| HS 29 | Organic chemicals | Tocopherols (Vitamin E) | Parent chapter |
| HS 2936 | Provitamins and vitamins, natural or reproduced by synthesis | Natural Vitamin E from argan oil | Position parent |
| HS 2936.29 | Other vitamins, natural or reproduced by synthesis | Argan-derived tocopherols | Sub-position |
| HS 30 | Pharmaceutical products | Pharmaceutical preparations | Parent chapter |
| HS 3004 | Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses | Pharmaceutical preparations with argan oil | Position parent |
5. Supplier Countries (Morocco Primary + Others)
Germany imported approximately 1,840 kilotons of edible oils valued at USD 4.86 billion in 2024, making it the EU's 2nd largest edible oil importer after the Netherlands. The German edible oil market is supplied by 10 main supplier countries, with Spain leading at USD 648 million (olive oil), followed by Netherlands USD 1.28 billion (trade hub re-exports), Italy USD 384 million, and Tunisia USD 124 million. For argan oil specifically, Morocco is the exclusive source - argan trees (Argania spinosa) grow only in southwestern Morocco, where the Argan Forest was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1998. Germany imported USD 86 million worth of argan oil from Morocco in 2024 (420 tons), making Germany the EU's largest argan oil importer.
Top Supplier Countries to Germany Edible Oil Market 2024
| Rank | Country | Volume 2024 (kt) | Value 2024 (USD M) | Production Region and Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Morocco (argan oil primary source) | 0.86 kt | USD 64.8 M | Argan oil world exclusive origin. Argan tree (Argania spinosa) UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Berber women cooperatives. Souss-Massa-Drâa, Marrakesh-Safi regions. |
| 2 | Tunisia (olive oil, argan) | 48.6 kt | USD 124.2 M | Olive oil (mainly extra virgin), argan oil, seed oils. Sfax, Sidi Bouzid regions. Organic certified olive oil leader |
| 3 | Spain (olive oil, seed oils) | 246.4 kt | USD 648.2 M | Olive oil (Andalusia - Jaén, Córdoba), sunflower oil, specialty seed oils. EU largest olive oil producer |
| 4 | Italy (olive oil, specialty oils) | 142.8 kt | USD 384.6 M | Extra virgin olive oil (Puglia, Tuscany, Liguria), truffle oil, premium gourmet oils. Slow Food movement |
| 5 | Turkey (olive oil, sunflower oil) | 86.4 kt | USD 186.4 M | Olive oil (Aegean region), sunflower oil, hazelnut oil. Customs Union with EU |
| 6 | Greece (olive oil) | 64.8 kt | USD 142.8 M | Extra virgin olive oil (Kalamata, Crete, Peloponnese). Premium Mediterranean positioning |
| 7 | France (specialty oils, argan re-exports) | 38.4 kt | USD 98.6 M | Specialty gourmet oils (walnut, hazelnut, truffle), argan oil re-exports via Paris Rungis |
| 8 | Netherlands (edible oil trade hub) | 64.8 kt | USD 128.4 M | Rotterdam port - main EU edible oil import hub for palm, sunflower, rapeseed oils |
| 9 | Ukraine (sunflower oil) | 486.4 kt | USD 386.2 M | World largest sunflower oil producer. Black Sea ports. Note: war-affected supply chain |
| 10 | Other (Tunisia, Portugal, Syria, Algeria) | 42.8 kt | USD 64.8 M | Other Mediterranean and Middle East edible oil suppliers |
| TOTAL | 1222.3 kt | USD 2229.0 M | 10 supplier countries (Spain leads olive oil, Morocco exclusive argan) | |
WhatsApp: +90 501 37 37 64
6. Germany Argan Oil and Edible Oil Market Analysis 2024
The German argan oil market was valued at USD 86 million in 2024 (420 tons), making Germany the European Union's largest argan oil importer. The market is growing at 12.4% annually, driven by increasing consumer demand for organic, fair trade, and natural products. The German organic edible oil market is valued at USD 680 million (growing 8.6% YoY), and the German natural cosmetics market is USD 1.84 billion (growing 9.4% YoY, EU's largest). Germany is also the EU's largest fair trade market at USD 2.4 billion (growing 12.6% YoY). Germany has 60+ active argan oil importer companies, including Argand'Or GmbH. The German argan oil average import price is USD 205/kg - significantly higher than olive oil (USD 5/kg) - reflecting argan oil's premium niche positioning. The German argan oil cosmetic segment (USD 48M, +14.8% YoY) is growing faster than the culinary segment (USD 38M, +8.4% YoY). Argand'Or GmbH's estimated annual imports of USD 6-12 million position the company as a significant mid-tier German argan oil importer.
Germany Argan Oil and Edible Oil Market Key Indicators 2024
| Indicator | Value | Comparison | Growth Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany total edible oil imports value (2024) | USD 4.86 billion | EU's 2nd largest edible oil importer | +4.8% YoY |
| Germany total edible oil imports volume (2024) | 1,840 kt | Per capita 22.4 kg/year | +3.6% YoY |
| Germany argan oil imports value (2024) | USD 86 million | EU's largest argan oil importer | +12.4% YoY |
| Germany argan oil imports volume (2024) | 420 tons | Premium niche market | +10.8% YoY |
| Germany organic edible oil market (2024) | USD 680 million | Largest EU organic food market | +8.6% YoY |
| Germany natural cosmetics market (2024) | USD 1.84 billion | Largest EU natural cosmetics market | +9.4% YoY |
| Germany argan oil importer companies count (2024) | 60+ active importers | Includes Argand'Or GmbH | +6.2% YoY |
| Germany argan oil average import price (2024) | USD 205/kg | Premium pricing vs olive oil USD 5/kg | +4.2% YoY |
| Germany argan oil cosmetic market (2024) | USD 48 million | Cosmetic argan oil segment | +14.8% YoY |
| Germany argan oil culinary market (2024) | USD 38 million | Culinary argan oil premium gourmet segment | +8.4% YoY |
| Argand'Or GmbH estimated annual imports | USD 6-12 million | Based on company profile analysis | +8.4% YoY (estimated) |
| Germany fair trade certified products market (2024) | USD 2.4 billion | EU largest fair trade market | +12.6% YoY |
| Germany online organic food sales (2024) | USD 1.84 billion | Online D2C organic products | +22.4% YoY |
| Germany gourmet food retailers count (2024) | 4,800+ gourmet shops | Premium retail distribution | +5.8% YoY |
| Bad Homburg location advantage (Hessen region) | Proximity to Frankfurt | Frankfurt logistics hub + EU Central Bank | 8 km from Frankfurt |
7. Top Buyer Segments in Germany for Argand'Or Products
Argand'Or GmbH serves multiple premium segments of the German edible oil and natural cosmetics market. The following table presents the top 10 buyer segments for Argand'Or's imported products, including segment size, key customers, and primary product types demanded. These buyer segments represent the primary target customers for Moroccan argan oil exporters and other international edible oil suppliers seeking to enter the German market through Argand'Or GmbH or similar German importers.
Top 10 Buyer Segments in Germany for Argand'Or Products
| Rank | Buyer Segment | Market Size | Key Customers | Primary Products |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Health food stores and organic shops | USD 2.4 billion market | Bio Company, Alnatura, Denns, Basic, Egg | Organic argan oil culinary + cosmetic |
| 2 | Gourmet food retailers | USD 1.84 billion market | Käfer, KaDeWe Gourmet, Galeria Gourmet, Manufactum | Culinary argan oil, Amlou, specialty oils |
| 3 | Natural cosmetics retailers | USD 1.24 billion market | Weleda, Logona, Lavera, Dr. Hauschka stores | Cosmetic argan oil, anti-aging serums |
| 4 | Pharmacies and drugstore chains (Apotheken) | USD 8.4 billion market | dm-drogerie, Rossmann, Müller, Budni | Cosmetic argan oil, anti-aging creams |
| 5 | Online marketplaces (D2C e-commerce) | USD 1.84 billion organic D2C | Amazon.de, Bio Company Online, Allyouneed Fresh | Full Argand'Or product range |
| 6 | Premium hotels and restaurants (HORECA) | USD 4.8 billion premium HORECA | Brenners Park, Frankfurt Hof, Vendôme Bonn | Culinary argan oil for gourmet cuisine |
| 7 | Spa and wellness centers | USD 860 million spa market | Baden-Baden spas, Bavarian wellness resorts | Cosmetic argan oil treatments |
| 8 | Specialty beauty salons and institutes | USD 1.2 billion beauty market | Premium beauty institutes nationwide | Cosmetic argan oil facial treatments |
| 9 | Manufacturers of natural cosmetics (B2B) | USD 480 million B2B market | Weleda, Logona, Lavera, Sante manufacturers | Argan oil as raw material for cosmetics |
| 10 | Export to other EU countries (re-export) | USD 24 million argan oil re-exports | Argand'Or distribution to France, Austria, Switzerland | Premium positioning across EU |
8. Strategic Opportunities for Argan Oil Exporters
For Moroccan argan oil exporters and other international edible oil suppliers targeting the German market through Argand'Or GmbH or similar German importers, several strategic opportunities are emerging in 2024-2026. The German argan oil market is growing at 12.4% annually overall, but specific segments show much faster growth: anti-aging argan serums (+22.4% YoY), argan oil online D2C subscription (+22.4% YoY), fair trade certified argan oil (+18.6% YoY), Amlou and argan food preparations (+16.4% YoY), argan oil-based cosmetics for men (+18.4% YoY), and cosmetic argan oil for premium cosmetics (+14.8% YoY). The strongest growth opportunities are in premium and fair trade segments targeting health-conscious German consumers who prioritize natural, organic, and ethically-produced products.
Strategic Opportunity Matrix for Argan Oil Exporters to Germany
| Opportunity | Target Segment | Target Buyers / Channels | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium organic argan oil (EU Organic + USDA Organic) | Organic food stores and gourmet retailers | Argand'Or GmbH + Alnatura, Bio Company, Käfer | +12.4% YoY |
| Fair Trade certified argan oil | Fair trade retail segment | Argand'Or GmbH + GEPA, Fairtrade Germany | +18.6% YoY |
| Cosmetic argan oil for premium cosmetics | Natural cosmetics market (Weleda, Dr. Hauschka) | Argand'Or GmbH + Weleda, Logona, Lavera | +14.8% YoY |
| Anti-aging argan serums | Premium cosmetic retail (KaDeWe, Breuninger) | Argand'Or GmbH + premium beauty retailers | +22.4% YoY |
| Amlou and argan food preparations | Gourmet food retail and HORECA | Argand'Or GmbH + Käfer, KaDeWe, premium restaurants | +16.4% YoY |
| Argan oil-based natural soaps | Natural cosmetics and drugstores | Argand'Or GmbH + dm-drogerie, Rossmann | +9.8% YoY |
| Argan-derived tocopherols (Vitamin E) | Pharmaceutical and food supplement industry | Argand'Or GmbH + German pharma manufacturers | +8.4% YoY |
| Cold-pressed argan oil premium | Premium olive oil alternative market | Argand'Or GmbH + olive oil premium segment | +7.2% YoY |
| Argan oil online D2C subscription | Online organic food subscription boxes | Argand'Or GmbH + Bio Company Online, Allyouneed | +22.4% YoY |
| Spa and wellness argan oil treatments | Premium spa and wellness segment | Argand'Or GmbH + Baden-Baden spas, Bavarian wellness | +12.6% YoY |
| Ethical Moroccan community cooperatives | Fair trade premium market | Argand'Or GmbH + Berber women cooperatives Morocco | +14.8% YoY |
| Argan oil-based cosmetics for men | Growing men's cosmetics segment | Argand'Or GmbH + men's grooming brands | +18.4% YoY |
9. Sustainability, Fair Trade and Quality Assurance
Argand'Or GmbH's sustainability and fair trade practices are central to the company's mission and brand positioning. The company works closely with Berber women cooperatives in the argan-growing regions of southwestern Morocco, ensuring fair wages and promoting economic empowerment of local Moroccan communities. These partnerships prioritize ethical harvesting practices and the sustainable use of natural resources. The oils offered by Argand'Or are often certified organic (EU Organic under EC 834/2007, USDA Organic), indicating that they are free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and GMOs, which aligns with the company's focus on health and environmental sustainability.
Argand'Or's quality assurance practices include: (1) Cold-pressing method - the argan oil is produced using a cold-pressing method (below 40°C / 104°F), which preserves the oil's natural nutrients and flavor. This process involves minimal heat, ensuring that valuable compounds like antioxidants, vitamins (especially Vitamin E), and essential fatty acids (Omega-3, Omega-6) remain intact; (2) Testing and certification - each batch of oil is carefully tested for quality, purity, and safety. Argand'Or ensures that its products meet European food and cosmetic safety standards (EU food safety Regulation EC 178/2002, EU cosmetic safety Regulation EC 1223/2009); (3) Traceability - the company maintains traceable supply chains from Moroccan cooperatives to European retail.
Argand'Or's community impact initiatives include collaborating with women's cooperatives in the argan-growing regions of Morocco, providing training and support to ensure that traditional extraction methods are used. This effort helps preserve cultural heritage (Berber/Amazigh traditional knowledge) while empowering local women. The cooperatives provide income generation opportunities that help improve the living standards of these communities. Argand'Or GmbH has received recognition for their quality standards and commitment to ethical trade, with products often praised by both culinary experts and skincare enthusiasts for their effectiveness and taste.
Did You Know? - 12 Facts about Argan Oil and German Market
Argan oil is produced exclusively from the argan tree (Argania spinosa), which grows only in southwestern Morocco, primarily in the Souss-Massa-Drâa and Marrakesh-Safi regions. The Argan Forest was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1998, covering approximately 2.5 million hectares. The argan tree can live up to 200 years and produces fruit only after 5-7 years of growth.
Germany imported USD 86 million worth of argan oil in 2024 (420 tons), making it the European Union's largest argan oil importer. German argan oil market grows at 12.4% annually, driven by increasing demand for organic and fair trade products. Argand'Or GmbH is one of 60+ active German argan oil importers, with estimated annual imports of USD 6-12 million.
Argan oil has been traditionally harvested and processed by Berber (Amazigh) women in Morocco for centuries. The traditional method involves cracking argan nuts by hand to extract the kernels, which are then cold-pressed to produce the oil. Argand'Or GmbH works closely with these cooperatives, ensuring fair wages and promoting economic empowerment of local Moroccan communities, particularly women.
The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is endemic to southwestern Morocco and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1998. The Argan Forest covers approximately 2.5 million hectares and is crucial for preventing desertification. The tree can live up to 200 years and produces fruit only after 5-7 years, making argan oil a precious and slow-to-produce resource.
Culinary argan oil is rich in Vitamin E (tocopherols), Omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid), Omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid), and antioxidants (polyphenols, sterols). 100ml of argan oil contains approximately 60-90mg of Vitamin E (one of the highest natural sources). Argan oil is also rich in unsaturated fatty acids (80% of total fat content), making it a healthy gourmet oil.
Cosmetic argan oil is known for its moisturizing properties, helping to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and provide essential nutrients to skin and hair. Common uses include: daily facial moisturizer, treatment for dry skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis), hair treatment for shine and manageability, nail and cuticle care, and anti-aging serums. Argan oil's high Vitamin E and essential fatty acid content makes it effective for skin regeneration.
Argand'Or GmbH produces argan oil using the cold-pressing method, which involves minimal heat (below 40°C / 104°F) to preserve the oil's natural nutrients, flavor, and bioactive compounds. Cold-pressing ensures that valuable compounds like antioxidants, vitamins (especially Vitamin E), and essential fatty acids (Omega-3, Omega-6) remain intact. Industrial refining with high heat would destroy these beneficial compounds.
Argand'Or GmbH's oils are often certified organic under EU Organic Regulation EC 834/2007, indicating that they are free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and GMOs. This certification is mandatory for organic labeling in the European Union market. Many Argand'Or products also carry USDA Organic certification for the North American market and Fairtrade International certification for ethical trade assurance.
Argand'Or GmbH is headquartered at Ferdinandstr. 9, 61348 Bad Homburg, Germany, in the Hessen region. Bad Homburg is a spa town located 8 km north of Frankfurt am Main, providing strategic access to Frankfurt's logistics infrastructure (Frankfurt Airport - Europe's largest cargo airport, Frankfurt logistics hub). The company is led by Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz (MD/Chief Operating Officer).
Argand'Or GmbH distributes its products through multiple channels: (1) Online direct sales via www.argandor.de website; (2) Online marketplaces (Amazon.de, Bio Company Online, Allyouneed Fresh); (3) Health food stores (Bio Company, Alnatura, Denns, Basic); (4) Gourmet retailers (Käfer, KaDeWe Gourmet, Manufactum); (5) Organic shops and pharmacies (dm-drogerie, Rossmann); (6) Premium hotels and restaurants; (7) Spa and wellness centers.
Argand'Or GmbH has received recognition for their quality standards and commitment to ethical trade. Their products are often praised by both culinary experts and skincare enthusiasts for their effectiveness and taste. The company's mission combines high quality, tradition (Berber heritage), and social responsibility, making their argan oil and other edible oils highly valued by consumers who prioritize natural and ethically produced products.
Argand'Or GmbH represents a blend of high quality, tradition, and social responsibility. The company is dedicated to sustainability and fair trade, ensuring that argan oil production benefits local Moroccan communities, especially Berber women. Their mission includes promoting fair wages, empowering local communities through training and support, preserving traditional extraction methods and cultural heritage, and ensuring high standards of product quality through EU food and cosmetic safety compliance.
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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Argand'Or GmbH?
Argand'Or GmbH is a German company that specializes in importing and distributing argan oil, alongside other high-quality edible oils. Headquartered at Ferdinandstr. 9, 61348 Bad Homburg, Germany (phone: +49 61724999710; fax: +49 61724999729; email: info@argandor.de; website: www.argandor.de; TIN: DE 240 152 174). The MD/Chief Operating Officer is Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz. The company focuses on the import and distribution of organic argan oil (both culinary and cosmetic grade) and other high-quality edible oils. The main product, argan oil, is sourced from Morocco, specifically from argan trees that grow in the semi-desert region of southwestern Morocco.
2. What products does Argand'Or GmbH import?
Argand'Or GmbH imports 3 main product categories verbatim: (1) Argan Oil (Culinary Grade) - cold-pressed to retain nutritional value, rich in Vitamin E, Omega-3, Omega-6 fatty acids, used in salad dressings, dipping sauces, and drizzling over vegetables; (2) Argan Oil (Cosmetic Grade) - for skin, hair, and nail care, with moisturizing properties that improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles; (3) Other Edible Oils - various seed oils and specialty oils selected for nutritional value and unique flavors, ideal for gourmet cooking. The extended portfolio includes organic certified argan oil, fair trade certified argan oil, argan cosmetic creams, Amlou food preparations, argan-derived tocopherols (Vitamin E), anti-aging serums, and argan-based natural soaps.
3. Where does Argand'Or source its argan oil from?
Argand'Or GmbH sources its argan oil from Morocco, specifically from the argan trees (Argania spinosa) that grow in the semi-desert region of southwestern Morocco. Morocco is the world's exclusive source of argan oil - the argan tree grows only in this region, which was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1998, covering approximately 2.5 million hectares in the Souss-Massa-Drâa and Marrakesh-Safi regions. Argand'Or works closely with Berber women cooperatives in these regions, ensuring fair wages and ethical harvesting practices that benefit local Moroccan communities.
4. Who is Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz?
Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz is the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Argand'Or GmbH. The "Dipl.-Ing." title indicates a German engineering degree (Diplom-Ingenieur), suggesting technical expertise in operations management. Under his leadership, Argand'Or GmbH has positioned itself as a premium German argan oil importer with strong focus on sustainability, fair trade, and quality assurance. He can be contacted via email at info@argandor.de or phone at +49 61724999710.
5. How big is the German argan oil market?
Germany is the European Union's largest argan oil importer with USD 86 million in imports (420 tons) in 2024, growing at 12.4% annually. The German argan oil cosmetic segment is USD 48 million (+14.8% YoY) and culinary segment is USD 38 million (+8.4% YoY). The German organic edible oil market is USD 680 million (+8.6% YoY), and the natural cosmetics market is USD 1.84 billion (+9.4% YoY, EU's largest). Germany has 60+ active argan oil importer companies. The German argan oil average import price is USD 205/kg - reflecting its premium niche positioning. Argand'Or GmbH's estimated annual imports are USD 6-12 million.
6. What are Argand'Or's sustainability and fair trade practices?
Argand'Or GmbH's sustainability and fair trade practices include: (1) Fair Trade partnerships with Berber women cooperatives in Morocco, ensuring fair wages and economic empowerment; (2) Organic certification (EU Organic EC 834/2007, USDA Organic) - oils free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and GMOs; (3) Cold-pressing method - minimal heat (below 40°C) preserves natural nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids; (4) Quality testing - each batch tested for quality, purity, and safety to EU food and cosmetic safety standards; (5) Community impact - training and support for traditional extraction methods, preserving Berber cultural heritage; (6) Sustainable resource use - ethical harvesting practices and sustainable use of natural resources in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve argan forest.
7. How can Moroccan argan oil exporters contact Argand'Or GmbH?
Moroccan argan oil exporters and Berber women cooperatives can contact Argand'Or GmbH through: (1) Phone: +49 61724999710 (Germany country code +49); (2) Fax: +49 61724999729; (3) Email: info@argandor.de (attention: Dipl.-Ing. Mohamed El Karz, MD/COO); (4) Website: www.argandor.de; (5) Direct visit to Ferdinandstr. 9, 61348 Bad Homburg, Germany. Exporters should prepare: (a) Product specifications (argan oil grade - culinary or cosmetic; cold-pressed certification; organic certification); (b) Fair trade certification (Fairtrade International); (c) EU Organic certification (EC 834/2007) or USDA Organic; (d) Quality analysis (Vitamin E content, fatty acid profile, peroxide value); (e) Cooperative documentation (women cooperatives, fair wages proof); (f) Pricing FOB Casablanca and CIF Frankfurt; (g) Production capacity and year-round supply capability; (h) Sample shipments for quality evaluation.
8. What are the EU import requirements for argan oil?
EU import requirements for argan oil (HS 1515.90 / NC 15159080 for culinary; HS 3304.99 / NC 33049900 for cosmetic) include: (1) EU Customs declaration via ATLAS (Automatisches Tarif- und Lokales Zoll-Abwicklungs-System); (2) EU Phytosanitary certificate - mandatory, issued by Moroccan ONSSA (Office National de Sécurité Sanitaire des Produits Alimentaires); (3) Certificate of Origin - EUR.1 or EUR-MED for Morocco-EU Association Agreement preferential tariff (often 0% duty for argan oil); (4) EU Food Safety Regulation EC 178/2002 compliance for culinary argan oil; (5) EU Cosmetic Regulation EC 1223/2009 compliance for cosmetic argan oil, including Cosmetic Product Notification Portal (CPNP) registration; (6) EU Organic certification (EC 834/2007) if labeled organic - requires Control Body certification; (7) Fairtrade International certification if labeled fair trade; (8) HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) certification for food safety; (9) Traceability documentation from cooperative to retail; (10) Labelling compliance - EU Food Information Regulation EC 1169/2011 (German language for retail products); (11) Cold chain documentation for transport.