thyssenkrupp Materials de México opens new service center
thyssenkrupp Materials de México inaugurated its new service center in San Luis Potosí, Mexico on January 25.
In total, the holding company thyssenkrupp Materials Services, one of the world’s leading mill-independent materials distribution and service providers, invested $37 million that will lead to the creation of around 65 new jobs. One of the main objectives of this site is to have a decisive impact on the future viability of the automobile supply industry, which has grown significantly in the region in recent years.
The new facility is part of thyssenkrupp Materials Services’ growth strategy in North America, a region in which the company invested more than $100 million in the last two years. It will join three other service centers located in the country in the cities of Saltillo, Puebla, and Silao. The latter has a steel and aluminum blanking line and, since it is located 170 kilometers from the new site, will operate in conjunction with it, making them the only two facilities in the country to offer this service.
thyssenkrupp Materials de México specializes in the distribution of materials and the provision of services for factories in the North American market. With the opening of this new facility, the company is consolidating its leading market position and demonstrating its ability to adapt its production model to the ever-changing needs of its customers.
“The needs and requirements of the industry are changing rapidly,” said Martin Stillger, CEO of thyssenkrupp Materials Services. “In the context of the major transformation issues of electromobility, sustainability, and supply chain resilience, Mexico is a clear growth market for us. Here we can support customers with our 'Materials as a Service' strategy, precisely in these key areas.”
Among the benefits of the new facility, a Schuler cutting line stands out, which allows the cutting of raw pieces of aluminum and high-strength steel that are used in the automotive industry. In this sense, due to the low weight and density of aluminum, it contributes to reducing polluting emissions and plays a determining role in the development of the sector. In recent years, the automotive industry has reacted to the increase in demand caused by the rapid transition to electric car mobility, as well as the implementation of stricter emission standards by the U.S government. While Mexican suppliers consider this country their largest sales market (around 80% of these are generated there), the launch of the new facility in San Luis Potosí will contribute decisively to meeting this demand.
Olaf Voss, CEO of thyssenkrupp Materials de México, highlighted the support and collaboration: “With the opening of the plant we will be able to further expand our unique position in this processing service in the Mexican market. We appreciate the good collaboration with the Secretariat of Economic Development of San Luis Potosí on this important project.” The site will take up operations on February 15, 2024.
Proximity, sustainability, and profitability: key benefits for customers
thyssenkrupp Materials de México now has four service centers in the country, which are strategically located very close to numerous original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and various industry suppliers. Delivery routes will be shorter and the direct connection of the railway line of the San Luis Potosí facility enables operations to be carried out in a manner that is more profitable and sustainable, in addition to deliveries “just in time.” The new site and the center in Silao will be operated jointly due to their close proximity. All aluminum blanks destined for the automotive industry that are not produced in these facilities will need to be imported as prefabricated parts from the United States. A strong commitment to sustainability is reflected in the overall design of the facility. Not only is the roof of the service center fully prepared for solar panels, but the entire exterior lighting is also solar-powered.
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