Trade press release
GEA inaugurates modernized homogenizer production site in Parma, Italy
06 Oct 2023
GEA has inaugurated its extended and modernized homogenizer production site in Parma, Italy. This investment, driven by growing demand in the food, pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, will enable production capacity to be expanded by up to 50 percent.
GEA's expanded and modernized production site for homogenizers in Parma (source: GEA).
The new facility is equipped with advanced testing capabilities and additional assembly areas aimed at accelerating delivery times. GEA Parma’s new site focuses on sustainability through environmentally friendly practices such as photovoltaic panels, water reuse systems and innovative air conditioning technology.
“This investment marks a significant leap forward for GEA’s homogenizer business, combining enhanced efficiency with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility,” emphasized Domenico Gambarelli, Senior Vice President of the GEA Homogenizer business unit. “It underlines the importance of GEA’s historic site in Parma. Drawing on over 75 years’ experience, it has become one of the world’s key centers for research and innovation in homogenization. With this strategic upgrade, we are proud to continue the success story together with our dedicated employees.”
4,000 additional square meters for enhanced efficiency and technology
The centerpiece of the expansion is the new 4,000 square-meter production unit, which will boost production capacity by up to 50 percent over the next decade. Alongside the assembly area, a new dedicated testing area with state-of-the-art test bays has been implemented. Here, Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) can also be performed in the presence of customers.
To speed up the availability of pharmaceutical homogenizers, a specialized assembly area for pharma machines has been designed with meticulous attention to hygiene standards. Moreover, GEA has doubled the in-line assembly area for standard machines, anticipating significant reductions in delivery times.
GEA remains committed to minimizing its environmental footprint, incorporating eco-friendly features such as photovoltaic panels, LED lighting, water reuse systems as well as innovative air conditioning solutions.
Guests visit the new production and testing department at GEA's modernized plant in Parma. (Source: GEA).
A sustainable makeover for the historic site – tailored to users’ needs
Taking in the entire GEA site in Parma, including offices, warehouses and common areas, the 360-degree modernization project streamlines workflows, optimizes space utilization and improves overall conditions tailored to users’ needs. For instance, adjustable platforms have been integrated into the production floor to enhance the ergonomic working conditions for assembly technicians. A cutting-edge office concept promotes collaboration and effective communication. The reorganization of office space follows the ABW (Activity Based Working) model, thus raising employee satisfaction, productivity and creativity.
"In practical terms," comments Alberto Pisseri, GEA Vice President Finance and Supply Chain & Production in Parma "it is about breaking free from the concept of a fixed workstation and considering spaces according to the purposes and needs of the moment. Depending on the task, you can choose between individual or collaborative, and formal or informal environments for planning or exchanging information. This breaks up the routine, making the hours spent in the office enjoyable, dynamic and productive."
About GEA Parma
Founded over 75 years ago by the Italian Soavi family, GEA’s production site and research center for homogenization are both located in Parma. Initially in high demand for dairy applications, GEA’s homogenizers are used today in more than seven different applications. These versatile machines play a crucial role in enhancing product quality, consistency and stability across a broad spectrum of industries.
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About GEA
GEA is one of the world’s largest suppliers of systems and components to the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.
GEA is listed on the German MDAX, the European STOXX® Europe 600 Index and is also a constituent of the leading sustainability indices DAX 50 ESG, MSCI Global Sustainability and Dow Jones Best-in-Class World.
