Rehau Morhange: 60 Years of Innovation & a Future Built on AI and Recycled Materials
Morhange, France – In a story that underscores the power of adaptation and forward-thinking strategy, Rehau, the window market leader with a 24% share, is making significant strides in sustainability and technological advancement at its Morhange, France facility. This breaking news reveals a company not just weathering a “crisis market,” but actively shaping its future through AI integration, a commitment to recycled materials, and a proactive approach to workforce development. This is a story about how a legacy manufacturer is embracing change to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving world – a blueprint for success in the age of Google News and SEO.
From Wheelbarrows to Windows: A 60-Year Evolution
The Rehau story in Morhange began in 1965, a far cry from its current position as a window profile powerhouse. Initially producing wheelbarrows for the iconic Volkswagen Beetle and watering pipes to meet the demands of a booming construction industry, the company’s early success was rooted in responding to market needs. Founded in Bavaria in 1948, the Morhange location was strategically chosen for its proximity to German customers, a workforce with Germanic language skills, and the availability of skilled labor following the closure of a nearby air base. This early adaptability laid the foundation for the company’s enduring success.
Embracing the Circular Economy: Recycled PVC at the Core
Today, Rehau is tackling one of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry: sustainability. Emmanuel Mayer, Director of the Morhange factory and President of Rehau France, emphasizes the company’s commitment to incorporating recycled PVC into its products. “The products that are developed today integrate a heart that is recycled, therefore PVC from markets, dismantling old windows on deconstruction or renovation sites, which we put at the heart of our products,” Mayer explains. This isn’t just about reducing waste; it’s about creating a circular economy where materials are continuously reused, minimizing the reliance on virgin resources and significantly reducing the company’s carbon footprint.
AI-Powered Manufacturing: The “Retrofit Team” and the Future of Production
Rehau isn’t just focused on materials; it’s also revolutionizing its manufacturing processes. A dedicated “retrofit team” is focused on integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, advanced control loops, and camera systems into existing machinery. This allows Rehau to maintain a consistent machine environment while continuously improving efficiency and quality. This strategic investment in AI isn’t about replacing workers; it’s about empowering them with tools to enhance their skills and productivity. It’s a prime example of how AI is reshaping the manufacturing landscape.
Navigating a Challenging Market & Securing Future Growth
Despite operating in a difficult economic climate, Rehau continues to thrive, signing 40 new partners in the last four years alone. Bruno Bednarczyk, Managing Director of Rehau France and Market Director, attributes this success to the company’s ability to offer a vast range of customizable options – over 10,000 references annually, with 48 colors and countless combinations. Production currently stands at 21,000 tonnes, supplying approximately 10 million windows each year. The company’s ability to manage this complexity while maintaining market leadership is a testament to its operational excellence.
The Workforce Challenge: Bridging the Experience Gap
However, Rehau faces a common challenge for established manufacturers: an aging workforce. With an average employee age of 50 and an average seniority of 22 years, the company recognizes the need for a robust recruitment strategy. Rehau is actively participating in job fairs, forging connections with training institutions, and preparing for a significant wave of retirements over the next decade. Investing in the next generation of skilled workers is crucial to ensuring the company’s continued success.
Rehau’s latest venture – a brand new roller shutter chest designed to capture the national market – is just the latest example of a company that refuses to rest on its laurels. For 60 years, Rehau has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to adaptation, innovation, and sustainability, positioning itself not just as a market leader, but as a model for the future of manufacturing.
