26.03.2010

Manitowoc is opening a new hoist line

Manitowoc is investing €3 million to establish a new hoist production line at its manufacturing facility in Charlieu, France, replacing existing hoist production at a facility in La Clayette.

All staff and equipment will move to Charlieu, which is 20 kms away. The in house manufacturing of hoists for Potain tower cranes originated in France, but the company says that the products, philosophies and procedures behind the new plant will be exported to the company’s other production facilities in Germany, Italy, Portugal, China and India.

Philippe Cohet, executive Manitowoc vice president for Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “This is a long-term investment that will modernise our production facilities in France and boost our competitiveness. It is both a response to the current low levels of demand in the industry and a move to position our company for future growth. Potain cranes are known for their quality and advanced technology, and this move safeguards both aspects for future generations.”

The facility at Charlieu has extensive space to house the new production line, and once installed, the Charlieu industrial center of excellence will comprise four main areas of activity:

• The manufacture of large self-erecting tower cranes.
• The manufacture of hoist drums for Potain tower cranes and Grove mobile cranes.
• The production of sub-assembly welded units.
• The production of spare parts and the provision of refurbishment services for the

The transfer brings the total number of employees at Charlieu to approximately 340. There will be an extensive period of training and planning prior to hoist production starting next month with the whole process due to be completed in the coming months.