RecPlex, the largest municipally-owned recreational facility in North America, is pleased to announce a corporate citizen sponsorship of $1.5 million from its community partner, HARIBO of America. The substantial commitment from HARIBO will significantly assist with the impact COVID-19 has had on RecPlex operations.
RecPlex will use $200,000 from the contribution to set up a scholarship fund for individuals and families who might not otherwise afford membership or programming. The remaining funds will help pay the RecPlex facility's $2.5 million annual debt service payment. HARIBO has committed to giving a 30-year sponsorship, the equivalent of $50,000 per year, in one lump sum payment to RecPlex.
"HARIBO's support couldn't come at a more critical time," said Craig Anderson, RecPlex Director of Recreation. "The investment they are making is helping preserve an incredible community asset. The HARIBO sponsorship offers relief to individuals and families in need of membership program assistance, and will help RecPlex recover from the pandemic's impact."
"We are committed to giving back to the places where we live and work, and the RecPlex in Pleasant Prairie is important to the community," said Wes Saber, Chief Financial Officer, HARIBO of America. "We want to help our neighbors and members of the community through this challenging year, and this is one way we can do that – investing in overall wellness and bringing continued joy to those who use the RecPlex."
HARIBO is in the process of locating its first North American Manufacturing site in Pleasant Prairie. The development consists of an initial investment of over $300 million in facility improvements. The sponsorship to RecPlex includes corporate membership discount opportunities for the 1,200 anticipated employees working at the future HARIBO facility.
"We have always said, and this only reaffirms, that HARIBO is a great community partner and a welcome addition to Pleasant Prairie," said Nathan Thiel, Village Administrator. "This is a significant contribution, and the Village can’t thank HARIBO enough for their efforts and this investment in our community."
HARIBO is the world's leading manufacturer of gummi products, most famous for its beloved Goldbears. Globally, the business employs nearly 7,000 Associates and operates 16 production sites in 10 countries. In the U.S., HARIBO has 100 Associates and is in the process of building its first-ever North American manufacturing facility in Pleasant Prairie, Wis. A family-owned business with a century-long heritage, HARIBO's founder, Hans Riegel, built the business on a foundation of quality and delivering moments of childlike happiness through confectionery products. Established in 1920, HARIBO is the acronym that comprises the founder's name and the city in which the company was born (Bonn, Germany): HAns RIegel BOnn. HARIBO prides itself on making playful gummies that are meant to be shared so our inner-child can always experience joy through sweet treats. HARIBO’s global headquarters is in Grafschaft, Germany, and its U.S. headquarters operates out of Rosemont, Ill. For more information, visit
www.haribo.com.