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 emphasised, 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 in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. That unit will continue to operate as a branch of the new location in Araraquara.

Bernd Meerpohl (second from the right) and Clovis Rayzel (far right) welcome Governor Geraldo Alckmin (left).

Governor Geraldo Alckmin (fourth from the left), Mayor Marcelo Barbieri (third from the right) and Bernd Meerpohl (far right), inaugurate the new Big Dutchman facility in Araraquara, Brazil.

An impressive sight: the new Big Dutchman facility in Brazil

Bird’s eye view of the new Big Dutchman facility

Bernd Meerpohl led the guests through the new showroom and introduced them to Big Dutchman’s broad product line.

Short supply routes: the new facility also houses a large logistics centre

The four Big "Dutchmen" Kai Wehmeyer (far left), Ricardo Santanna (second from the left), Clovis Rayzel and Bernd Meerpohl celebrate the opening of the new facility.

Renowned singer and composer Almir Sater impressed everyone with his performance