Chocolate Lugano Vitória

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Chocolate Lugano Vitória

1976 Founded in Gramado on September 26, the Lugano chocolate factory was named after the Swiss city of the same name, located in the Italian canton of the country, also a tribute to the origins of founder Lauri Casagrande. 1985 This year, the company was acquired by Renaldo Schwingel. Ronaldo's administration, as he was known, resulted in a rapid growth of the business and, in five years, in 1990, the previous amount of three employees reaches twelve employees to supply the market demand, passing the production of 500 kg chocolate. to 2 tons/month. 1992 Throughout its history, Lugano was responsible for some decisions that changed chocolate making in the region, always seeking to innovate in its exclusive recipes. When transferred to its current factory in 1992, it was the first to use a revolutionary computer. Also, the company stood out with the sale of two boxes with eight bars each to hotel chains in Gramado and Porto Alegre. The format was also acquired by airlines, such as Varig and, later, TAM. 1994 It incorporates an important differential, being the first chocolate factory to produce “figures” – products that reproduce a specific format, for example, Kikito. The inspiration came from a business trip to France and Belgium, by SEBRAE, and then the acquisition of shapes in the most diverse designs. 1999 This year, it innovates in the store concept and begins the practice of self-service. The novelty now represents a 40% increase in sales. 2001 In the new millennium, Lugano invests heavily in acquiring its first chocolate-making machine. The differential, also unprecedented in the region, was the ability to produce its own chocolate. The intention was to improve recipes and gain full control over production. In cocoa derivatives, for example, industrialized brands use 25 to 27%, more sugar and powdered milk, among other compensations. With its own machine, Lugano started to use 36%, a similar amount to European manufacturers. It was a remarkable leap in quality in the history of Lugano and of Gramado's chocolate. 2002 Afterwards, the group opens the factory store with a different and playful decoration, in addition to ample parking for groups. The establishment is the first chocolate-themed store in Brazil. That same year, the friendly mascot Luguito also appeared. His story tells that he got lost in the woods and was found by the Lugano family. Thus, he was welcomed with a lot of chocolate and, in the form of thanks, he was always willing to welcome our visitors. 2007 This year marks the opening of the Gramado Boulevard condominium store, the third in Gramado. Unfortunately, the year also saw the death of Renaldo Schwingel, aged 83. However, his legacy was marked in the history of the brand he built, in addition to his love and dedication to the manufacture of chocolates, feelings proven by his work in the packaging sector – his favorite – until the last week before his death. 2008 That year, the foundation of Rasen Bier takes place. The legitimate Cerveja de Gramado is part of Chocolate Lugano's group of partners. Rasen Bier has an installed capacity of 150,000 liters/month and has its own brewery in the city.