3M invests $133m in graphics films plant

Industrial giant 3M has invested $133m in upgrading its graphic film production facility in Germany, adding two new lines, that will see it produce an extra five million square metres of a film a year.

The plant produces custom vinyl wraps for vehicles, graphic films for walls, floors and pavements, surface finishes, translucent films for eye-catching signage, perforated films for window graphics, and non-PVC films.

The site is being celebrated as an Industry 4.0 plant. The company says 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.

The plant supplies Australia and New Zealand. Amit Laroya, senior vice president, Transportation and Electronics Business Group, Asia, said, “This new facility reaffirms 3M’s commitment to the graphics business and will support our growth needs in Australia as well.

“We remain committed to providing world class sustainable products for our customers and improving service levels and quality that is expected of us as a market leader.”