The Grand Opening of the Winans Chocolates and Coffees on Monday morning has ushered in another improvement in The Riverfront project in Piqua.
Joe Reiser, owner of his father-in-law’s company founded in 1961, said the new facility brings three operations all under one roof; The Coffee Roastery, Gift Basket Operations and Offices and the Chocolate Factory now at 310 S. Spring Street.
“We feel like we’ve come full circle,” Reiser said at the opening. In 1961, Max Winan opened the factory and store in one building. Growth over the years forced expansion into three separate locations. Now, with all operations under one roof, Reiser said Monday that the chocolate maker can be more efficient.
“Thanks to my contractor, Ben Denlinger, the whole project has met the original time line exactly and we are thrilled to be up and running as we move into our busy holiday season,” Reiser said in a release prior to the “soft opening” on Monday.
Huge windows at the retail store give passers-by a view of the chocolate-making inside. Community tours and bus tours will also allow visitors an inside-look.
“The Riverfront project in Piqua is really taking off,” said Laurie Winans Reiser, daughter of the founder, in a release. “We are thrilled to be a part of getting it kicked off. We are not right on the river, but are considered an anchor for the project and we look forward to other businesses joining us in what will become the heartbeat of Piqua.”
