O-I completes €55m factory upgrade in Italy
The company spent €40m on a furnace, four production lines and inspection equipment creating 30 jobs this year, in addition to a €15m investment in 2011 to upgrade one furnace and production lines.
Prosecco wine region
The San Polo plant employs 240 people and is located in the Prosecco wine-producing region.
Erik Bouts, president, O-I Europe, said the company will continue to invest in its facilities in Italy to strengthen its capabilities and position in the market.
“Our investments in San Polo significantly enhance the plant’s capabilities to better serve our customers’ growing needs for innovative, cost-effective and sustainable glass packaging,” he said.
Improved production facilities
The improved production facilities in San Polo incorporate the latest sustainability technologies resulting in a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions.
The plant can use up to 90% recycled glass in the production process and offers increased capabilities to produce lightweight containers.
“San Polo is located in the heart of Prosecco, one of the most important wine regions in Italy,” said Angelo Breviari, country group executive, O-I Italy and Hungary.
“Our investment demonstrates our commitment to this region and to our many customers active in the Italian food and beverage markets.”
The investment in San Polo is part of the company’s asset optimization program.
Over the next several years, O-I is investing significantly in Europe to strengthen its capabilities and market position.
By the end of 2014, it will have invested more than €280m over two years in Europe.
