- H.B. Fuller invested €70 million in restructuring its European industrial base.
- The Blois plant's productivity increased by 30% with new equipment.
- The R&D lab renovation cost €1.5 million and employs 15 technicians.
- Production of pressure-sensitive adhesives moved to Lüneburg, Germany.
Investment and Restructuring
In 2012, H.B. Fuller acquired Forbo-Swift and began restructuring its European industrial base, investing €70 million and closing 12 factories. The Blois plant in France, centrally located near key industrial areas, plays a crucial role in this strategy.
Enhanced Productivity
The Blois facility now features new stainless steel tanks and two automated production lines, boosting productivity by 30%. This upgrade eliminates the need for delivery bags, saving time and reducing manual handling.
R&D Lab Renovation
The investment also included a €1.5 million renovation of the R&D lab, which employs 15 technicians and researchers. This lab formulates adhesives for all European sites, enhancing the company's innovation capabilities.
Production Shifts
While the Blois plant focuses on small series polyurethane adhesives for the automotive industry, the production of pressure-sensitive adhesives has been transferred to Lüneburg, Germany. H.B. Fuller also operates a second factory in Surbiton, France, which supplies adhesives and sealants to the construction industry.
