On the 15th of May, the leading European building chemicals producer Wolf Group opened the PU Foam Factory in Spain. This historic step marks the beginning of foam production not only in Iberia but in the entire Mediterranean, North African, and Near East regions.
Located in Gavà, Barcelona, it is the group´s second factory in the region and its 5th in Europe. It represents Wolf Group´s continuing growth and expansion and helps to serve focus markets more effectively in Western Europe and the USA.
Wolf Group´s strong presence in Spain proved to be decisive in selecting the location of the new facility. Located next to the Wolf Group Ibérico S.A.U sealants factory, it covers an area of 10 ha and represents an investment of 12 million Euros. The facility generates up to 50 new jobs, many of them unprecedented on the peninsula.
“Globalization has made us vulnerable; it is not feasible to relocate the entire industry to China or low-cost developing countries without endangering our existence,” said Wolf Group Founder Jaan Puusaag in his inauguration speech. “You can´t digitalize everything; for everyday life, people need physical things. Industrial companies are important employers as they involve all social groups and contribute to regional development through tax revenue.”
The PU foam factory has been equipped with the most advanced technology and will be capable of manufacturing more than 70 foam combinations in the initial phase alone, including low-MDI, no-MDI, and regular foams. More than 5 million units are expected to be produced in the first year. Low-MDI and no-MDI foams are a growing trend in the construction market, as the sector moves towards healthier, safer, and more environmentally friendly products. “Wolf Group products are essential to meet climate goals as buildings are the biggest energy consumers. We save energy, “emphasized Jaan Puusaag.
“Wolf Group has a strong vision based on our values and long-term goals. We expect growth of the market share in Europe and foam sales boost in the region,” stated Wolf Group CEO Peeter Tohver.
The facility strengthens the position of Wolf Group Ibérico S.A.U, which has had a long history as a sealant producer. “We innovate through the opening of the first polyurethane foam factory. It is a strong message to the construction sector,” said Sergi Baqués, Managing Director of Wolf Group Ibérico.
Roger Torrent from the Government of Catalonia and Major of Gavà, Gemma Badia, emphasized the importance of the knowledge-based industry in Catalonia.
The event, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marked the completion of the construction process, which began in 2023. More than 100 guests, including state and local officials, stakeholders, suppliers, and employees from 12 countries joined the festivities.