Sio Vroomshoop Toy Factory
The company NV Sio (Toy Industry Overijssel) was founded in 1938. It was established by Messrs. Mertens, de Groot, van Riggelen, and Uilenreef. The money that became available from the cessation of peat bogs was invested in the new company. The wood was supplied by the lumber wholesaler of co-founder de Groot.
Mr. Mertens said about the founding of Sio in an article in Tubantia in 1969: "When, just before the war, one peat bog after another in Vroomshoop was forced to close, both the municipal and provincial authorities were looking for ways to establish new industries in the municipality."
The opening of the factory on June 12, 1939, was performed by the Commissioner of the Queen, Baron van Voorst tot Voorst. From left to right: Baroness van Voorst tot Voorst, Baron (Eppo) van Voorst tot Voorst, Mayor Bramer, Mr. de Groot, Mrs. de Groot-Westra, (probably) Sigmund.