Big Dutchman recently inaugurated its new Brazilian facility in the city of Araraquara, state of Sao Paulo. Nearly BRL 30 million (€ 13 million) were invested in a property with ten hectares (25 acres) on which nearly 16,000 m2 (172,000 ft2) were built.
The event attracted more than 500 customers, suppliers and local authorities. Addressing the crowd Bernd Meerpohl, Chairman of the Board of Management, spoke about the huge potential Brazil has for further developing its intensive animal production and its natural ability to help feed the world. However, Mr. Meerpohl also emphasized, that natural resources alone are not enough. It is also necessary for Brazilian poultry and pig producers to be ahead of the curve on all issues and available technologies involving their industries in an increasingly connected world.
Kai Wehmeyer, Member of Big Dutchman’s Board of Directors, was also present. Clovis Rayzel, President of Big Dutchman USA, spoke about the event being above all a moment of commitment to the Brazilian market. Ricardo Santanna, Big Dutchman Brazil’s Managing Director, welcomed the guests and thanked the city of Araraquara for supporting this project. Amongst several local authorities Big Dutchman was honored with the presence of Araraquara’s Mayor, Marcelo Barbieri and the Governor of the state of Sao Paulo, Geraldo Alckmin, who toured the new facilities and was introduced to Big Dutchman’s broad product line in its state-of-the-art showroom.
The memorable evening went on with dinner and was closed with the show of Brazilian renowned singer and composer Almir Sater.
Big Dutchman is the world leader in equipment for poultry and pig production. It was founded in 1938 and its global headquarters are in Vechta, Germany. The company entered the Brazilian market in 2000 when it acquired the company Avimec, located in Caxias do Sul, state of Rio Grande do Sul. That unit will continue to operate as a branch of the new location in Araraquara.
“Natural ability to help feed the world”