Since then, it has been on a growth trajectory. Although no profits have (yet) been made after one year, the foundry in Lorient is sticking to its goal of increasing production. In doing so, it is pursuing a determined roadmap.
The upturn is underway and has accelerated in recent months, which is due to the determined dynamism of the foundry's employees and the general conditions set by the management. "But we must not forget that we are only at the beginning of the journey," says Jérôme Dupont, who has been Managing Director of Fonderie de Bretagne for two months.
"One year after the sale of Renault to the German investment fund Callista, the reorganisation is in full progress," said the new site manager, who was responsible for the changeover.
Reorganisation of the sales team
Several advances have been made, including the reorganisation of the sales team, which consists of six people. "Sales management is already in advanced negotiations with seven new customers. We are also in talks with 45 other relevant contacts," the Management emphasises. With the main objective of diversifying its markets to ensure continuous and competitive business activity, Fonderie de Bretagne said it had set up new production facilities in November 2022.
"The goal of being in the black by 2026 also depends on the commitment of the employees, and I have no doubts about that. The modernisation of the site is running successfully. However, it must not be forgotten that, despite all business developments, the commitments made by the former shareholder, the Renault Group, remain in place," says Jérôme Dupont.
Modernisation plan of over 32 million euros
In particular, the investor has committed to financing the modernisation of the production facilities, with investments estimated at over 32 million euros. "The first modernisation work has already begun. The installation of the facilities as part of the diversification strategy will last until September 2025.
Another focus of the refurbishment measures is energy optimisation. "The melting technology will be converted by switching the low-frequency furnaces to medium frequency. This change will lead to significant energy savings, estimated at 20%," the management states. Other measures to increase energy efficiency are expected to reduce energy consumption by 30% within five years, through recovery or self-generation.
In 2023, the Fonderie de Bretagne employed 300 people.
Source: www.bretagne-economique.com
