French automotive supplier Novares Group SA has opened its third production plant in Chihuahua, Mexico, bringing the total number of its Mexican operations to five.
In a Feb. 27 statement, Novares said the new Chihuahua plant had been established to expand its current business with Ford Motor Co. and further develop programs with their new customer, BMW AG.
Next to implementing smart rules and tools to meet automotive standards, Novares said that it would be utilizing lean and efficient manufacturing processes at the new production unit. Novares formerly operated under the name Mecaplast-Key Plastics Group. It changed its name in 2017.
The 7,900-square-meter plant is expected to have 19 million euros ($23.4 million) in annual sales.
Novares said it had invested a total of $15.6 million at the site, including the installation of 25 new Engel injection molding machines.
Products of the plant have not been specified.
Novares' other Chihuahua locations, built in 1994 and 1997, both specialize in producing plastic components such as radio bezels and HVAC controls for interiors.
The company's plant in Puebla, Mexico, which opened in 2003, supplies injection molded parts for vehicle exteriors, interiors and the engine. A plant in Silao, opened in 2016, produces moldings by injection for engine parts.
“We are looking forward to closely working with our customers, Ford, BMW and help them take their business to the next level,” said Charles Holmes, plant director, Novares Chihuahua, Mexico.
