The unmistakable aroma of freshly baked pretzels filled the air on Nov. 7 as Auntie Anne’s celebrated its grand opening at the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center (KMCC), making it the brand’s first location in Germany and second in Europe for the Exchange.
While Germany is famous for its pretzels, Auntie Anne’s is playfully stepping into friendly competition for the title of “world’s best pretzel.” The brand brings its own American twist to the classic favorite, offering warm, hand-rolled pretzels that have become a comfort food staple for generations back home.
“Bringing Auntie Anne’s to Germany is especially meaningful,” said Krystal McLaurin, services business manager. “It brings a familiar taste of home that so many Americans have been missing, while also introducing the beloved brand to our German community.”
The soft opening took place Nov 6, followed by the grand-opening ceremony Nov. 7, where guests were treated to fresh samples and smiling faces. Each pretzel is hand-crafted and baked in front of customers, continuing Auntie Anne’s 35-year tradition of quality, freshness and warmth.
Airman 1st Class Tiffany Leaders of the 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron on Ramstein Air Base was the first person in line.
“I love how the Exchange is bringing new food options for the community,” Leaders said “There’s not a lot of good food around unless you travel far and that costs extra money, and right now, with the government shutdown, people don’t want to spend money on the travel. So, they’re bringing stuff onto base. It’s a good thing.”
By partnering with national brands like Auntie Anne’s, the Exchange brings a comforting taste of home to service members and families serving abroad. This latest addition joins a growing lineup of recently opened restaurants in the Exchange’s Europe Region that includes Panda Express, Starbucks and Dunkin’, which is part of the Exchange’s global effort to deliver familiar favorites to the military community wherever they serve.
“Well, of course we already have pretzels here in Germany, but Auntie Anne’s puts an American twist on it.” Leaders said, “They just have more flavor that we all love.”
For more pictures from the grand opening, check out this Flickr album.
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