A large fire at the Royal Steensma confection factory in Franker has destroyed one of the company’s eight production buildings. No injuries have been reported.
The Leeuwarder Courant reports that the fire occurred in a building used for drying fruit. According to director Rimmert de Jong, operations impacted by the fire will be temporarily taken over by an affiliated company abroad. Damage is estimated to be in the millions of euros.
Four fire engines and two ladder trucks were dispatched to the scene. The fire produced significant amounts of smoke and steam, and the burning sugars in the facilities created a caramel scent in the air.
Royal Steensma, which is a 175-year-old company, produces ingredients for baking and has facilities in Leeuwarden and Franeker. Normal operations are expected to resume in the undamaged portion of the Franeker facility on Monday.
Photo source: Omrop Fryslân
