PERRYSBURG, OH and VAULX-EN-VELIN, FRANCE - O-I Glass, Inc. (NYSE:OI), a global leader in glass bottle and jar production, has announced a substantial investment of €95 million into two of its production facilities in France. The company's modernization program aims to enhance sustainability, flexibility, and productivity at its Gironcourt-sur-Vraine and Reims sites.
In Gironcourt, €55 million will be allocated to rebuild a furnace with the innovative Gas Oxy Advanced Technology (GOAT), which is expected to cut CO2 emissions by up to 18%. The investment also includes modernizing a production line to increase flexibility and capacity. The plant, which recently celebrated its 120th anniversary, is noted for its use of approximately 80% scrap and locally recycled glass in production and its supply of glass bottles primarily to the beer market via rail, reducing truck traffic significantly.
Reims, marking its 150th anniversary in 2023, has undergone a €40 million investment for a major upgrade, including renovating a furnace and a production line, and installing new equipment. These enhancements have resulted in a 5% energy reduction and further the plant's sustainability efforts, with about 90% of raw materials being scrap and locally recycled glass. The Reims facility also boasts a reduction in CO2 emissions by roughly 60% and fine particle emissions by about 80%. It produces 300 million bottles annually for various French wine regions and delivers champagne bottles in trucks powered by alternative fuels, further reducing emissions.
Walter Ferrer, Managing Director of O-I Glass for Southwest Europe, stated that these investments align with the company's commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency, as well as improving supply chain resilience and working conditions.
Overall, O-I Glass has invested significantly in its French operations since 2019, with nearly €120 million in Gironcourt and €90 million in Reims, positioning these plants among the most modern in O-I's global network. The investments reflect O-I's updated ESG roadmap and capital spending plan, reinforcing its dedication to environmental sustainability and customer service.
This news is based on a press release statement from O-I Glass, Inc., and has not been independently verified.
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