3M Commercial Solutions Division targets expansion after £ 70m investment in new production facilities
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£ 70m global investment is set to help boost production capacity for 3M Commercial Solutions Division ’ s clients in the UK . The company , which helps customers build brands and transform spaces with total graphics and signage solutions , will now be able to meet growing demand by tapping into additional capacity at the state-of-theart facility in Hilden , Germany .
Two new graphic film production lines will be capable of delivering an additional five million square metres of film every year , ensuring lead times are maintained and growth expectations can be met .
The site is being celebrated as an Industry 4.0 lighthouse plant , incorporating state-of-the-art graphic film manufacturing , leading-edge energy management systems and world class quality performance , including web inspection , defect identification and automatic converting connections .
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Engaging Six Sigma Black Belts to implement LEAN initiatives has allowed the plant to reach optimum efficiencies and deliver on its productivity targets , including automation and a focus on clean energy that will help the facility reduce its carbon footprint by 50 % by 2022 .
With 2800 sq metre of manufacturing floorspace , the new building took 353 days to construct and reinforces Hilden ’ s position as the largest 3M production plant in Europe , reducing the shipping time to customers being serviced in the UK .
“ This investment further demonstrates our commitment to leadership in the Commercial Solutions world and boosts our capacity across key markets like the UK ,” said Silvia Perez , President , 3M Commercial Solutions Division .
“ We are proud that this high-investment , next-generation site with global reach has been established in Europe and we are excited that this is just the first step of a longer-term investment plan .”
The Grand opening was attended by key stakeholders from the 3M Commercial Solutions Division , the pioneers behind the development of the new facility , and key dignitaries from the German Government , who commemorated the momentous occasion .
3M manufactures graphic films ‚ flexible substrates and inks used to create finished graphics that are consistent ‚ reliable and durable .
The company also holds training programmes for installers of all skill levels , to help them grow their businesses and build their reputations .
For further information , please visit www . 3m . co . uk