Kühne

Kühne is a German surname of likely origin from the adjective kühn, meaning bold or courageous. The name is found in various German-speaking regions and has become associated with several prominent organizations and individuals.

The most widely known use of the name is in Kühne + Nagel International AG, commonly referred to as Kühne + Nagel or K+N. This global transport and logistics company was founded in 1890 by August Kühne and Friedrich Nagel in Bremen, Germany. It operates worldwide, providing ocean and air freight, contract logistics, and supply-chain solutions. The company is headquartered in Switzerland and is one of the leading players in its sector.

Klaus-Michael Kühne is a notable bearer of the surname. A German-Swiss businessman, he controls substantial interests in Kühne + Nagel and has been a major shareholder in other enterprises such as Hapag-Lloyd. He established the Klaus-Kühne Foundation, which supports education and scientific initiatives, and has been influential in promoting logistics research and related educational efforts.

Kühne Logistics University (KLU) is a private university in Hamburg, Germany, named after Klaus-Michael Kühne. Founded in 2009 and funded by the Klaus-Kühne Foundation, KLU focuses on logistics, supply-chain management and related business disciplines, contributing to academic study and industry collaboration in the field.

In addition to these, the name Kühne appears in various personal names and corporate branding, reflecting its German linguistic and familial origins.