Bissinger's Handcrafted Chocolatier Grand Opening
Historic Riverfront Renovation, Capacity Increased to 220,000 SF; Private Chocolate Tours & Luxury Special Event Space Now Available
Saint Louis, MO, November 11, 2014 --(PR.com)-- Bissinger’s and The Caramel Room unveiled their new facility in a special Chocolate Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Grand Opening Party on October 15, 2014. Over 300 guests looked on as Bissinger’s President & CEO Tim Fogerty and Mayor Francis Slay cut a specially-created chocolate ribbon with an oversized chocolate champagne bottle to inaugurate Bissinger’s new Corporate Headquarters and showcase its premier 14,000 SF special event space, The Caramel Room.
“We are so honored to be here carrying on Bissinger’s legacy. Originating in 17th century Paris, the company opened its St. Louis doors in 1925,” said Fogerty. “The increased capacity will allow us to keep up with demand and bring new jobs to St. Louis. The addition of private chocolate tours and special event space for parties, corporate meetings and receptions will make this a destination and major attraction for both local and out-of-town visitors.”
The ceremony was the culmination of a year of intense effort and the renovation process took more than 250 people to complete. With ever increasing business, Bissinger’s was eager to take the operation to a higher level. It consolidated two facilities, bringing jobs from its Iowa City plant to St. Louis, and relocated everyone to the new 1600 N. Broadway location. This area is just north of the Four Seasons Hotel and on the cusp of an extensive revitalization. Bissinger’s now employs approximately 100 people.
Constructed circa 1910, the historic property was once home to the Missouri Kansas Texas Railroad Depot. A $15 million renovation was undertaken to upgrade to industry standards while preserving much of its original architectural detail. The four-story building contains 220,000 SF of office and manufacturing space and will now accommodate private chocolate tours. The top floor has a new 14,000 SF special event space which can seat up to 350 people for dinner and features a 4,200 SF deck offering unprecedented views.
Bissinger’s explored many options when searching for a new facility, but felt a strong allegiance to the City of St. Louis. The company worked closely with the City, the St. Louis Development Corporation and the Missouri Department of Economic Development to bring the project to fruition. “We could never have taken a 100-year-old property that sat empty for decades and turn it into this incredible space without the help of so many,” Fogerty said. “We are committed to serving as a catalyst for change in the area and the new development will be an anchor for the community.”
“We are very proud that Bissinger’s has their new Chocolate Factory and Headquarters here in the City,” said Mayor Slay. “I can’t imagine a company more fitting to be a part of the new front door of our City and be so visible as one enters the new Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge. This has got to be one of my favorite ribbon cutting ceremonies ever. It is a spectacular space and a real testament to your leadership and dedication to quality.”
Fogerty presented the Mayor with a special limited-release chocolate bar commemorating the 250 anniversary of St. Louis. The hand-painted art features famous pioneers and landmarks that have been instrumental in the fabric of St. Louis’ iconic past, present and future. Available in both 60% Dark Chocolate and White Mint, the 8-oz. bars can be purchased for a limited time in both stores and online.
Bissinger’s Handcrafted
For more than 350 years, Bissinger’s confections have been made with our signature European chocolate and the classic skills that have been handed down from generation to generation of Chocolatiers. We seek out only the finest ingredients to provide both unique and innovative flavor combinations—all while staying true to our long-standing legacy. We believe that part of enjoying fine confections comes from a rich understanding of our history, sourcing only premium ingredients and the passionate attention to detail that goes into every piece we craft.
Bissinger’s confections can be purchased at our retail locations, specialty food stores and large premier retailers nationwide; by visiting us online at www.bissingers.com; or by phone 800.325.8881.
“We are so honored to be here carrying on Bissinger’s legacy. Originating in 17th century Paris, the company opened its St. Louis doors in 1925,” said Fogerty. “The increased capacity will allow us to keep up with demand and bring new jobs to St. Louis. The addition of private chocolate tours and special event space for parties, corporate meetings and receptions will make this a destination and major attraction for both local and out-of-town visitors.”
The ceremony was the culmination of a year of intense effort and the renovation process took more than 250 people to complete. With ever increasing business, Bissinger’s was eager to take the operation to a higher level. It consolidated two facilities, bringing jobs from its Iowa City plant to St. Louis, and relocated everyone to the new 1600 N. Broadway location. This area is just north of the Four Seasons Hotel and on the cusp of an extensive revitalization. Bissinger’s now employs approximately 100 people.
Constructed circa 1910, the historic property was once home to the Missouri Kansas Texas Railroad Depot. A $15 million renovation was undertaken to upgrade to industry standards while preserving much of its original architectural detail. The four-story building contains 220,000 SF of office and manufacturing space and will now accommodate private chocolate tours. The top floor has a new 14,000 SF special event space which can seat up to 350 people for dinner and features a 4,200 SF deck offering unprecedented views.
Bissinger’s explored many options when searching for a new facility, but felt a strong allegiance to the City of St. Louis. The company worked closely with the City, the St. Louis Development Corporation and the Missouri Department of Economic Development to bring the project to fruition. “We could never have taken a 100-year-old property that sat empty for decades and turn it into this incredible space without the help of so many,” Fogerty said. “We are committed to serving as a catalyst for change in the area and the new development will be an anchor for the community.”
“We are very proud that Bissinger’s has their new Chocolate Factory and Headquarters here in the City,” said Mayor Slay. “I can’t imagine a company more fitting to be a part of the new front door of our City and be so visible as one enters the new Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge. This has got to be one of my favorite ribbon cutting ceremonies ever. It is a spectacular space and a real testament to your leadership and dedication to quality.”
Fogerty presented the Mayor with a special limited-release chocolate bar commemorating the 250 anniversary of St. Louis. The hand-painted art features famous pioneers and landmarks that have been instrumental in the fabric of St. Louis’ iconic past, present and future. Available in both 60% Dark Chocolate and White Mint, the 8-oz. bars can be purchased for a limited time in both stores and online.
Bissinger’s Handcrafted
For more than 350 years, Bissinger’s confections have been made with our signature European chocolate and the classic skills that have been handed down from generation to generation of Chocolatiers. We seek out only the finest ingredients to provide both unique and innovative flavor combinations—all while staying true to our long-standing legacy. We believe that part of enjoying fine confections comes from a rich understanding of our history, sourcing only premium ingredients and the passionate attention to detail that goes into every piece we craft.
Bissinger’s confections can be purchased at our retail locations, specialty food stores and large premier retailers nationwide; by visiting us online at www.bissingers.com; or by phone 800.325.8881.
Contact
bissingers
Rosemary Sturm
314-615-2432
www.bissingers.com
Rosemary Sturm
314-615-2432
www.bissingers.com
Contact
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