Nine companies awarded 'Factory of the Future' label
Nine companies in Belgium were awarded the label of "Factory of the Future" for the first time on Tuesday by the employers’ organisations Agoria, Sirris, Fevia, Fedustria and essenscia. The award highlights the companies attention for innovation and forward-looking policies.
The awards were presented on Tuesday evening in the presence of Walloon deputy prime minister Pierre-Yves Jeholet. The laureates are Armacell Thimister Belgium, ChocDecor, Dovy Keukens, Locinox, Quality Assistance, Sports and Leisure Group - a TenCate company, Thales Alenia Space Belgium (Charleroi site), Vika and Willy Naessens Alu.
Factories of the Future are companies that invest in digitisation, talent development, smart processes, sustainable products and world-class production. They use energy and raw materials efficiently and promote the involvement, creativity and autonomy of their employees.
After an expert evaluation, companies awarded the label may use the title for three years, after which a new audit determines whether it can be renewed. Since the label was launched, 84 companies have received the title. Eleven firms are renewing their status this year.
Leader in innovation
Flemish minister-president Matthias Diependaele addressed the audience via a video message. "Flanders is one of the absolute leaders in innovation and has industrial clusters that are known far beyond our regional borders," Diependaele said.
"In a rapidly changing world, we must do everything we can to maintain and further strengthen that position. Manufacturing companies are the engine of our economy. They account for almost half of Flemish exports and provide a livelihood for many people."
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE
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