An Alsatian baker saved by an unexpected donation of €90,000 from casino

David Pichot, baker in Blotzheim, came close to disaster. After receiving an exorbitant electricity bill of 94,000 euros, he was forced to close his seven bakeries, putting his business and his jobs at risk. But an unexpected gesture of solidarity saved him: the Basel Grand Casino, located a few kilometers from the French-Swiss border, made a donation of 90,000 euros.

First help

The production site located in Blotzheim was closed for 13 days due to the EDF power cut. The craftsman did not want to give up and wanted to save his team’s jobs by reaching an agreement with EDF. It wasn’t easy but he ended up reaching an agreement, paying €30,000 straight away to recover the power supply and €25,000 by July 15. Even with the help of friends and businesses with whom he has worked for 20 years, it seemed impossible until a generous Swiss donor gave him an unexpected gift.

This providential aid allowed Mr. Pichot to reopen his bakeries and preserve the jobs of his employees. The baker, still in shock at this generosity, expressed his deep gratitude to the Basel Grand Casino.

“It’s a miracle, I never thought they would do such a thing for us. They saved our lives.”

David Pichot

Solidarity 

It was while reading the press that the owner of the Basel Grand Casino, established in the region for more than twenty years, discovered the story of the baker. He explains his gesture by his attachment to the local economy and the family ties he maintains with the baking industry.

“We have French customers and employees, and we wanted to support an artisan who is part of our community.”

Adrian Schiesser, casino representative

This extraordinary story is an example of cross-border solidarity and hope for the future. It shows that even in the face of difficult trials, mutual aid and generosity can make all the difference.