Chapter 229

Chapter 229: Maximum Effort

In Trieste, as June rolled in, a ship laden with grain from East Africa docked at the port, beginning the unloading process. Subsequently, the grain was transported via a dedicated railway to the Vienna Food Company factory situated on the outskirts of Trieste.

Despite the late hour, the factory was brilliantly lit by electric lights, as the workforce tirelessly pushed forward with production. The summer heat had intensified, and the ovens within the factory only added to the sweltering conditions.

The factory supervisor addressed the workers, urging them to redouble their efforts to increase production by 60% over the next two months.

Simultaneously, in the Hechingen factories located in the German region, production was in full swing. There was a particular emphasis on military supplies, grain processing, and wine production.

Prussia had its sights set on war, especially figures like Bismarck and the Prussian Army, who were eager for conflict. The Franco-Prussian War was looming, spurred in part by Bismarck's manipulation of diplomatic messages, culminating in a war fervor.

Although Ernst, the ruler of East Africa, held a different perspective shaped by Eastern thinking, he did not interfere in Prussia's internal affairs. Furthermore, the war ambitions were shared by the majority in Prussia, making the conflict inevitable.

Recognizing the strain the war would place on the grain supply due to mass mobilization, Ernst made preparations in advance. The Hexingen Consortium, operating at full capacity for two months, aimed to supply Prussia's military with ample resources at market prices.

East Africa's abundant raw materials, in conjunction with the Austro-Hungarian Empire's support and newly established comprehensive grain industry zones, ensured cost efficiency. Additionally, the war would stimulate related industries, providing an opportunity to profit from wartime endeavors.

Ernst's strategy was ultimately successful, considering Prussia's victory in the Franco-Prussian War. Although the war imposed industrial and agricultural losses, the Prussian government believed it could recover them from France.

Back in East Africa, Ernst reviewed various military rations, focusing on compressed biscuits. He tested one himself and approved of its taste, emphasizing the importance of ease of transport, extended shelf life, and taste improvement.

The development team also presented various cooked food products with extended shelf lives, catering to soldiers on the front lines.

Ernst turned his attention to wine production, requesting the creation of affordable yet potent Wrangler vodka for the military. He emphasized the importance of competitive prices and high alcohol content to meet the needs of soldiers and reassure the military.

Furthermore, he encouraged the production of lime soda, recognizing its appeal to soldiers during summer months.

Ernst underscored the importance of advertising and shaping public opinion to promote industrial food products, especially concerning nutrition and convenience. While logistics planning for the Franco-Prussian War took precedence, he also contemplated establishing a leather bag company in France to distribute military rations once the French mobilized.

Ernst's thorough preparations highlighted his commitment to both the war effort and economic endeavors, ensuring East Africa's role in the international landscape.