RAPS, the international specialist for spices and functional ingredients, has officially broken ground on a state-of-the-art headquarters in Kulmbach, Bavaria, marking an important milestone in its long-term growth strategy.
A multi-million euro investment, unveiled at a ceremony on October 6, will create a 5,000 square meter facility designed to promote innovation, customer collaboration and sustainable industrial development. Completion is scheduled for 2027.
At the heart of the new building is a Customer Experience Center tailored to support collaborative development in key application areas such as meat, savory, baked goods, dairy, confectionery and snacks. Equipped with modern technical laboratories and versatile meeting rooms, the center will host interactive workshops and seminars aimed at deepening customer engagement and accelerating product innovation.
“With the new building of our headquarters, we are laying the foundation for sustainable growth, international cooperation and even greater customer orientation,” said Dr. Oliver Ebneth, CEO of the RAPS Group. “This building is a clear signal to our employees, customers and partners that we are investing in innovation and quality in the long term.”
In addition, there will be interdisciplinary work areas at headquarters that promote cross-functional collaboration between sales, marketing, product development and administration. A large auditorium on the fourth floor will support events and knowledge sharing between teams and partners.
RAPS is strengthening its role as a regional employer and is expected to employ around 200 people at the new location. The design integrates existing structures to conserve embodied energy and reduce environmental impact, while green roofs, facades and advanced climate control systems support energy efficiency and microclimate improvement.
“The Customer Experience Center will be a place where practical development, co-creation and innovation go hand in hand – a clear signal for long-term partnerships and quality made in Kulmbach,” adds Frank Kühne, majority shareholder and spokesman for the RAPS owning family.
For food manufacturers, the new headquarters signals RAPS' commitment to driving ingredient innovation, collaborative development and sustainable growth.