We took a significant step in our corporate history. The official groundbreaking ceremony for our planned expansion was successfully carried out on 12th October 2023. This marks the beginning of an exciting journey and is the first of three planned events to celebrate this project.
In the presence of Andreas Schmidt, CEO, accompanied by his wife Ivona Schmidt and his daughter Lorena Schmidt, Export Sales Manager of the company, as well as Mr. Wycisk, Economic Development Officer from the city of Tuttlingen, and Mr. Haller and Mr. Andris from the construction companies, the symbolic groundbreaking was performed.
The planning phase for the expansion proceeded exceptionally smoothly and efficiently, after the original start date in 2020 had to be postponed due to the circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We are delighted that the project can now commence with full enthusiasm and under ideal conditions. The support received through the "Excellence in Rural Areas" award, which was granted to our company earlier this year, has also been instrumental.
The planned expansion, just like the building constructed in 2012, will be realized in solid wood and concrete construction, emphasizing our commitment to sustainability. This additional space will expand our capacity for staff, demonstration kitchens, and logistics areas. Furthermore, it will provide room for a relaxation area and a fitness facility to promote the well-being of our employees. This expansion optimally utilizes the existing property.
Mr. Wycisk expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration in a brief speech and highlighted the close communication between the city administration and VITO AG. "The short and clear communication channels have made cooperation very pleasant. We are very pleased that a company from Tuttlingen has been honored with the 'Excellence in Rural Areas' award, especially one from such a unique industry that is not common for our location," he said.
We are looking forward to the continuation of the project and the upcoming events, including the topping-out ceremony expected to take place around the turn of the year and the grand inauguration celebration next year. This expansion represents another step in our ongoing effort to promote quality and innovation in the gastronomy sector and advance the growth of our company.