Visible start of an important project

With a ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony, SMC Deutschland GmbH, together with representatives from local government and economic development, the construction supervisory authority, the press, as well as the responsible project partners and architects, officially kicked off construction of the new SMC Campus in Egelsbach. Following the building permit granted in July, the ceremony now marks the visible beginning of a project that SMC, the region, and its partners will closely support over the next three years.

Kick-off by SMC

Rolf-Eric Matthies, Senior Vice President of Engineering, welcomed those present: "Today is not only a symbolic act, but also the beginning of a new chapter for SMC – a place for collaboration, modern workplaces, and progress."

Perspectives and Investments

Daniel Langmeier, Managing Director of SMC Deutschland GmbH, then explained the company's plans: "Germany is a country of innovation within the SMC Group. With the campus, we are specifically expanding research and development – ​​with new laboratories, test rooms, and modern offices. We are investing a total of 100 million euros here in Egelsbach."

Completion of construction work is scheduled for June 2028 – just in time for SMC Deutschland's 50th anniversary. In an interview with the Offenbach Post, Langmeier also emphasized the location's advantages: Egelsbach is ideal due to its proximity to Frankfurt Airport, its central location in Germany, and the excellent cooperation with the local community. "There are no limits for us as SMC Deutschland," said Langmeier. Regarding expansion, he clarified that there is still sufficient room for further growth – in the future, both the headquarters could be expanded and additional development space could be created. SMC is also considering whether, in addition to the new buildings, a guest house for international colleagues should be built, which could be used for training, exchange, and educational programs in the future.

The customer is at the heart of the entire project: With the campus, SMC aims to further strengthen its proximity to the markets and create solutions that best meet customer needs.
Significance for the Community

Mayor Tobias Wilbrand emphasized the importance of the project for Egelsbach in his address: "With this campus, SMC is sending a clear signal of courage, a forward-looking approach, and a strong connection to our community. They create high-quality jobs and contribute to Egelsbach's reputation as a location far beyond the region."

He also acknowledged SMC's social commitment to local clubs and initiatives. As a symbolic gift, he presented a large themed cake to the SMC management team, as a sweet token of appreciation and a memento of the special day.
Architecture with Radiance

Finally, architects Robin and Frank Hellweg of A°ID Architektur + Industrial Design highlighted the close collaboration:
"SMC is a client with vision. This trusting collaboration enables customized solutions, a project with radiance that will have an impact beyond the architecture."

Following the speeches, the symbolic groundbreaking ceremony took place – a joint photo opportunity marking the official start of construction on the new SMC campus.