Dietz And Watson Celebrates 75th Anniversary At Headquarters In Tacony
By Steve Tawa
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Dietz and Watson, the family-owned deli purveyor, remains committed to rebuilding its burned out Delanco, New Jersey distribution center, but it's still not saying where the plant will be located.
A decision could be made this spring as it marks its 75th anniversary.
The company's firm public offer from New Jersey includes $30-million in tax credits to rebuild on the Delanco site after last September's 11-alarm fire (read related story).
"We're continuing to do our due diligence," said company spokesman Steve Aaron. "There's quite a bit that the company needs to take a look at."
Aaron was asked about the potential to consolidate at an undisclosed location in Philadelphia, where its headquarters is in the Tacony section of the city.
"I can't discuss anything firm in the way of offers," Aaron said. "What I can tell you is that the company is committed to this region, no matter the location and where that works out."
Meantime, a custom Dietz and Watson food truck is about to hit the road on a nationwide Four Generations of Flavor Tour.
Lauren Eni, a member of the fourth-generation family-owned and operated company, says the truck will hit 30 cities across the country.
"We're capturing the local flavors of each market," Eni said, "showing consumers how they can use Dietz and Watson products - not just in a sandwich - but in actual recipes."
Ruth "Mama Dietz" Eni is Lauren's grandmother, and the daughter of founder Gottlieb Dietz.
"It's a good product," Ruth said. "It tastes good, and it's good for you at the same time."
Consumers on the Flavor Tour's run will be invited to taste test Dietz and Watson products head to head against top competitors.
