FACC completes construction of Croatia-based composites facility

FACC AG (Ried im Innkreis, Austria) has completed the construction of its new high-tech plant in Jakovlje, Croatia, announced in June 2019. Operations were gradually started in Dec. 2021. At the new production facility, the company is manufacturing composite components for the cabin interiors of commercial aircraft and business jets.

“With an investment volume of €12.5 million for the first expansion phase, this project is the largest greenfield investment outside of Austria in the history of FACC,” CEO Robert Machtlinger says. The infrastructure as well as the proximity to Zagreb, Austria, which boasts a technical university and a highly qualified workforce, were among the reasons for the decision in favor of this location, which is also well connected to international transport networks.

The two-story, 128,000-square-foot plant was built within 10 months. The ultra-modern and efficient production facility was designed in cooperation with Fraunhofer Institute (München, Germany). In addition to production halls, the building is also equipped with offices as well as social and technical areas. 

Within just three months, the company was able to recruit more than 150 skilled employees around the Zagreb area. “Demand has skyrocketed again, particularly in the area of short- and medium-haul aircraft. This is why we are currently planning the next stage of expansion with additional areas for component assembly and logistics,” Machtlinger adds. Given the current order situation, the workforce is expected to triple in the long term.

The new plant is part of the company’s recently announced growth strategy, which is preparing for the growth requirements of the future with an investment package of more than €150 million in the coming years. Besides investments in new aerospace projects, the main focus is on a strong expansion of research and development (R&D) for consistent sustainability and technological leadership. FACC’s goal is to establish itself among the top 50 aerospace groups worldwide by 2030. At present, the company says it ranks among the top 100.