60 Years of
SEFCO: Passion, Integrity,
Innovation, and Dedication to Excellence
2025 began with a unique celebration on January 10th for Sefco Zeelandia, marking 60 years of continuous presence in the bakery and pastry industry. The impressive event, held at the company’s facilities, was more than just a celebration. It was an opportunity to reflect on our rich history, honor our roots, and look forward to the future with optimism.
A Story Inspired by Founder Marios Batis
The story of SEFCO began in 1965 when Marios Batis, a visionary full of ingenuity, ambition, and a love for baking, founded the company on Menandrou Street. With two of his first products—Velex, the first pastry improver that became a groundbreaking innovation of its time, and Sefat, the first baking improver in Greece—Marios Batis laid the foundation for a company that would soon become synonymous with quality and innovation in the industry.
Despite the challenges, Marios Batis built a strong business based on integrity, passion, and respect. After his passing in 1984, the second generation—Theodoros, Andreas, and Thanos—took the helm during a difficult era. They not only maintained the company’s success but also introduced new innovations, establishing Sefco Zeelandia as a leader in the bakery and pastry sector.
The Third Generation and a Vision for the Future
Today, the third generation of the Batis family, along with CEO Juan Carlos Puente, continues to lead the company with dedication and creativity. With fresh ideas, new vision, and a commitment to their heritage’s values, they continue to innovate, inspire, and push boundaries by leading by example.
The 60-Year Celebration: An Evening Full of Emotions
The 60th-anniversary event was a tribute to the company’s rich history. Sefco Zeelandia’s facilities were transformed to welcome employees, with decorations honoring the company’s colors and heritage. At the entrance, the company’s first machines reminded everyone of its visionary beginnings.
The evening began with a speech by Theodoros Batis, the company’s Chairman, who shared the story of the founder and the family, touching everyone’s hearts. He emphasized the importance of consistency, teamwork, and the human-centered approach that has characterized the company for six decades.
The presentation titled “Our Story” allowed each department to showcase the most significant moments of 2024. Employees shared their small and big victories, followed by the vote for the best department for exemplary collaboration in 2024. This year, the Quality Control Department deservedly won, continuing a tradition of recognizing employee efforts and contributions.
A treasure hunt followed, bringing employees closer through teamwork and the search for clues that ultimately revealed the image of Marba, the company’s iconic first cake, synonymous with its founder, Marios Batis.
Honoring Our People!
The event also included the traditional cutting of the New Year’s cake and the awarding of “Lions,” presented to employees who have worked with the company for 5, 10, 20, or even 30 years. These awards are a tangible acknowledgment of the dedication of the employees who are the heart and soul of the company.
The evening concluded with dancing, live music, a DJ, and a lively atmosphere. The company generously gave gifts to its people, recognizing their role in its success.
Our Future: Keep Exploring
As we look ahead, we remain true to the values that brought us here: integrity, passion, and respect. These values continue to be the cornerstone of our relationships with customers, partners, and employees. With this momentum, we are confident that even greater successes await us.
Together, we will continue our journey, proud of our achievements and excited for the challenges to come.
