The Benecke-Kaliko Group in Hanover, Germany, is expanding production of foils for car interiors in Southern and Eastern Europe. Retroactively from November 1, 2014, the company, which belongs to the German Continental Corporation, took over two sites of the Belgian Mecaseat Group, which also includes the French decorative foil producer Griffine Enduction. Soon, the Spanish company Gorvi S.A. in Pamplona and the Polish company Mecapol in Wagrowiec will also belong to Benecke-Kaliko. Both locations employ a total of 150 employees. Benecke-Kaliko so far has four plants across the world, employing some 2,100 people. The fifth global plant is being built in China. All jobs will be maintained. “We didn't just want to buy the business, but also manufacturing capacities," says Chairman of the Executive Board Dr. Dirk Leiß. “The new plants are clearly following the strategic direction of the company. With access to the market in Southern Europe, we are sending a clear signal for further growth with French and Spanish manufacturers. In future, we will also be able to offer our customers an additional price segment, particularly for models that are in demand in the booming small car segment." Gorvi in Spain supplies customers in Spain, France and North Africa. Mecapol supplies Eastern European and Russian customers with foils and upholstery materials. "This acquisition also secures new production capacities, which will relieve the pressure on current locations," says Dr. Leiß. With these takeovers, Benecke-Kaliko will also get access to the industrial sector and supply upholstery materials for the furniture industry.
Benecke-Kaliko AG, that belongs to the division ContiTech of the Continental AG, operates four plants worldwide in China, Germany, and Mexico. The company posted sales of €392 million in 2013.
