Groundbreaking for the new SMC Campus in Egelsbach – Local politics, press, and project partners celebrate the official start signal

Symbolic groundbreaking ceremony of the SMC Campus (from left to right): Robin Hellweg, Daniel Langmeier, Tobias Wilbrand, Rolf-Eric Matthies, and Frank Hellweg. (Photo: SMC Germany)

With a ceremonial groundbreaking, SMC Germany GmbH, together with representatives from local politics and economic development, building authorities, the press, as well as the responsible project partners and architects, officially marked the start of construction for the new SMC Campus in Egelsbach. Following the building permit granted in July, the ceremony now signifies the visible beginning of a project that will closely accompany SMC, the region, and its partners over the next three years.

Kick-off by SMC

Rolf-Eric Matthies, Senior Vice President of Engineering, welcomed the attendees:
"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

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

The completion of construction is scheduled for June 2028 – in time for SMC Germany’s 50th anniversary. In an interview with Offenbach Post, Langmeier also emphasized the advantages of the location: Egelsbach is ideal due to its proximity to Frankfurt Airport, its central position in Germany, and excellent cooperation with the municipality. "There are no limits for us as SMC Germany," said Langmeier. Regarding expansion, he clarified that there is still ample space for further growth – potentially, both the headquarters could be expanded and additional development areas created. Additionally, SMC is considering whether, besides the new buildings, a guesthouse for international colleagues should be built, which could serve future training, exchange, and educational programs.

The customer remains at the center of the entire project: with the campus, SMC aims to further strengthen its proximity to markets and create solutions that best meet customer needs.

Significance for the Community

Mayor Tobias Wilbrand highlighted the importance of the project for Egelsbach in his speech:
"SMC sends a clear signal with this campus for courage, future orientation, and the connection to our community. They create high-quality jobs and contribute to making Egelsbach a location that shines far beyond the region."

He also praised SMC’s social engagement in local clubs and initiatives. As a symbolic gift, he presented a large decorative cake to SMC’s management as a sweet token of appreciation and as a reminder of this special day.

Architecture with Impact

Finally, architects Robin and Frank Hellweg from A°ID Architecture + Industrial Design emphasized the close collaboration:
"SMC is a visionary builder. The trusting cooperation enables tailored solutions, a project with impact that will resonate beyond architecture."

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