Overview of current Interior Solutions contracts
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As a result of the present economic crisis, the automotive sector worldwide is facing a sharp drop in volumes. Although the first signs of a tentative recovery are already emerging now, it is doubtful whether the sector will ever be able to return to the pre-crisis volumes. In this context, Recticel therefore considered it best to adapt its production capacity to the substantially lower market demand. The Group therefore cut the number of production units from 13 to 8 plants and its commercial organisation accordingly.
Finally, it must also be pointed out that, where possible, new innovative developments will remain necessary to be able to retain its market position. At commercial level, a new generation of dashboard skins, named Colo-Sense®, has been launched. These new patented skins combine better touch and feel (haptic) properties with competitive pricing. On the basis of their better quality and the innovative character of these products, various new contracts have already been concluded.
| Market position | One of the European market leaders in the production of moulded seat cushions for the automotive industry (market share about 22%, and in Central Europe about 27%); but together with Woodbridge world leader. |
| Market penetration | At least 4 million cars are manufactured each year in Europe which incorporate Proseat components. |
| Volume of production | 134,000 units per day. |
| Alliances | Production joint venture with Johnson Controls in Poland and Slovakia. |
| Annual turnover | 2009 EUR 191 million. |
| Headquarters | Mörfelden-Walldorf (Germany). |
| Number of production plants | 11 plants distributed in Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom. |
| Workforce | About 1,650 people. |
The production and marketing of seat cushions in cold moulded foam for the automotive industry has already been ensured for a number of years via the joint venture Proseat. Proseat is 51% controlled by Recticel and 49% by the Woodbridge group (Canada).
With its 11 production sites in 8 different countries, Proseat is one of the largest independent seat cushion manufacturers for the European automotive industry. In addition to seat cushions, Proseat also produces other seat components, such as headrests, armrests and side panels for car seats.
