Austria-based Semperit Group is expanding its hose production in the Semperflex segment. More than EUR10 million will be invested to raise capacity at the Semperflex Optimit plant in Odry, Czech Republic. Semperflex Optimit is already Europe’s largest manufacturer of hydraulic and industrial hoses. The investment programme, which is now underway is designed to increase production capacity by about 30% by the second quarter of 2015.
“In 2013 we achieved a significant rise in hose sales and gained a greater market share although the global economy was weak. For this reason, we are currently operating at full capacity”, says CEO Thomas Fahnemann. “We see additional growth potential in the future based on our high-quality products and enhanced customer service. We can meet the strong demand for Semperflex hoses, intensify our partnerships with key customers and therefore secure future growth by expanding our production capacities in Odry.” Although the Semperflex segment has recently been negatively impacted by the weaker market environment, it profits from global growth in the mechanical engineering, construction and mining sectors. In particular, the need to catch up in emerging markets along with infrastructure expansion has ensured an on-going demand for construction and agriculture machinery.
Semperflex boasts a strong market position for its hydraulic and industrial hoses in these areas. The investments will enable a further increase in production capacity. Europe’s largest hose factory located in Odry stands out thanks to its existing engineering know-how and a longstanding tradition in the production of premium hose products. The capacity expansion drive will result in an increase in the number of staff at the site, underlining the important role Semperflex Optimit plays as an employer in the region. The hose plant in the eastern region of the Czech Republic has been part of the Semperit Group since 1998.