Compagnie d'Entreprises CFE : VMA contributes to the construction of Belgium's first integrated PET bottle recycling plant

VMA contributes to the construction of Belgium's first integrated PET bottle recycling plant

Brussels, 21 September 2023

VMA, a subsidiary of the multidisciplinary CFE Group, has collaborated in the construction of Filao, the first integrated PET bottle recycling plant in Belgium, specifically located in Couillet near Charleroi. This groundbreaking factory, covering an area of 17,000 square meters, will recycle up to 40,000 tons of PET bottles annually and is the result of a partnership between Sources ALMA, one of Europe's largest producers of spring and natural mineral water, and Veolia, a specialist in water and waste management.

For the construction of this innovative project, VMA took charge of the installation of HVAC systems, high-voltage panels, and electrical facilities. VMA's expertise contributes to the efficient operation of the plant, enhancing the success of this project.

The FILAO plant embodies a splendid example of local circular economy in Belgium. Wim Geens, Managing Director of Fost Plus, explains: "Filao offers a high-tech solution for bottle-to-bottle recycling. PET bottles from the new blue bag are transformed into secondary raw materials here, which are then used in the production of new bottles within the Sources ALMA group. These new bottles will consist of at least 50% recycled PET (r-PET), aligning with European sustainability objectives. Furthermore, it contributes to the local economy by creating both direct and indirect jobs."

"VMA is proud to be a part of this innovative and sustainable project that promotes the circular economy in Belgium and has a positive impact on the environment and the local community. This project aligns completely with VMA and CFE's vision. We forge partnerships with pioneers in our sector and prioritize sustainability and innovation in our strategy", says Guy Wynendaele, CEO of VMA.

With the opening of the Filao plant in Couillet, Belgium takes a significant step towards a circular and sustainable future. CFE and VMA look forward to continuing to collaborate on innovative projects that shape the world of tomorrow and have a positive impact on society.

About VMA

VMA, a division of the multidisciplinary industrial group CFE (www.cfe.be), has a workforce of 1,050 enthusiastic employees who together realise more than 250 million euros revenue. The Industrial Automation activity is flanked by the Building Technologies segment. It designs, installs and maintains all technologies in buildings and implements building management software to improve user convenience. This segment also monitors and analyses all data such as energy consumption through its VMANAGER business unit (www.vmanager.be) in order to facilitate the necessary energy transition.

About CFE

CFE is a multidisciplinary group active in Belgium, Luxembourg and Poland in four core activities with a significant growth potential that shape tomorrow's world: real estate development, multitechnics, construction & renovation and sustainable investments. With a turnover of 1,200 million euros, more than 3,100 employees and long experience and expertise gathered since its foundation in 1880, the CFE group has the ambition to challenge the status quo and create positive change by providing a successful answer to environmental and societal challenges to ensure the well-being of future generations. The group realises this ambition by putting sustainability, innovation and respect for its employees at the heart of its strategy and by offering its clients total solutions.

Press contact

Ann Vansumere,

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