This March, Sto Corp. welcomed industry media professionals to a two-day event at its Atlanta headquarters and nearby manufacturing plant. The gathering provided an opportunity for attendees to meet Sto’s team, explore its production processes, and learn more about its innovative cladding solutions. Editors from BNP MEDIA’s Architectural Record and Walls & Ceilings were among those invited to the event.

Day One: Meet-and-Greet and Industry Insights

On March 3, media representatives arrived at Sto’s main office in Atlanta, conveniently located near Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The event began with an introduction to the company’s sales and product management teams, who presented Sto’s latest cladding technologies and answered industry-related questions. Attendees also enjoyed a catered spread from Sundry Events and Catering (https://www.sundryeventsandcatering.com).

Following the office visit, guests were treated to dinner at Two Urban Licks, a well-known Atlanta restaurant set in a historic warehouse. Recognized by Conde Nast Traveler and Bon Appétit, the restaurant provided a lively atmosphere for networking and informal discussions.

Day Two: Manufacturing Plant Tour and Product Demonstrations

The second day featured a guided tour of Sto’s nearby manufacturing plant, where both dry and wet products are formulated, packaged, and prepared for distribution. Originally built in 1987, the plant is the company’s main manufacturing facility (there are also facilities in Vermont and Arizona). The 55,000-square-foot facility has approximately 60 employees at the plant, focusing on production, research and development, product testing, and specialized training programs for architects and industry professionals.

A key highlight of the tour was a demonstration of Sto’s advanced robotic system, implemented a decade ago, which automates the lifting and sealing of wet products in pails. The plant also houses a state-of-the-art color and tinting service, enabling customized solutions tailored to specific project requirements.

Close to the manufacturing site is a massive 70,000-square-foot warehouse that stores outgoing wet and dry packaging and serves as Sto’s primary shipping hub for North America. Additionally, the company is preparing to expand its operations with a new facility in Mexico, expected to be fully operational by mid-2025, to support its growing South American market.

Showcasing StoVentec Fiber Cement Rainscreen System

As the event wrapped up, attendees returned to Sto’s headquarters for a presentation on the StoVentec Fiber Cement Rainscreen System, a ventilated cladding solution that combines sustainability, design flexibility and high-performance capabilities. The product boasts strong thermal efficiency, fire resistance, and weather protection, featuring non-combustible continuous insulation, a robust air and water-resistive barrier, and high-density fiber cement panels. Engineered to minimize thermal bridging, the system enhances energy efficiency and occupant comfort while ensuring long-term durability with Sto’s single-source warranty.

During the discussion, Sto’s Senior Product Development Specialist, David Hohenstern, alongside Carolina Albano Baffigo, Vice President, StoVentec Rainscreen fielded questions about StoVentec and other cladding solutions. The company also announced its upcoming participation in BUILD’25 in Charlotte, where it will continue to showcase its expertise and innovative products to the industry.

Sto’s commitment to product innovation and customer solutions was evident throughout the event, leaving attendees with valuable insights into the company’s capabilities and future developments.

“At Sto, we believe in fostering strong relationships with the industry by providing firsthand experience of our innovation, expertise, and manufacturing capabilities,” said Baffigo. “At Sto Corp. hosting this media event allowed us to share our commitment to high-performance cladding solutions, sustainability, and the continuous advancements that drive our business forward.”