European motor manufacturing hub opens in Portugal
Global motor manufacturer, WEG inaugurated its new European Industrial Park on October 17, 2024. The new facility, based in Porto, Portugal, represents a significant milestone in the company’s strategic expansion across Europe. This new facility not only strengthens WEG’s position as a leader in industrial manufacturing, but also plays a role in enhancing competitiveness and sustainability throughout the region.
Situated in Santo Tirso near Porto, the state-of-the-art Industrial Park spans over 100,000 square metres, with more than 45,000 square metres of covered space. As one of WEG’s largest operations outside of Brazil, the facility is primed to be a hub for advanced production and innovation, serving key markets in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.
The new park features the HV Solutions Centre, dedicated to producing medium and high-voltage motors, including those with shaft heights of up to 1,400 millimetres, as well as motor control centres. It will also be home to one of the world’s most advanced testing and R&D facilities, ensuring that WEG remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the industrial sector.
The impact of WEG’s new Industrial Park extends beyond Portugal, offering substantial benefits to European industries. With this facility, WEG is positioned to provide faster delivery times, more reliable supply chains and tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of its customers.
“This new Industrial Park is more than just a production facility; it is a strategic asset that will significantly enhance the efficiency and sustainability of industries across Europe,” explained Marek Lukaszczyk, marketing manager for Europe and the Middle East at WEG. “By bringing new technology and high-quality production closer to our European customers, we are enabling them to respond more quickly to market demands and strengthen their competitive edge.”
In alignment with WEG’s commitment to sustainability, the industrial park operates on 100 per cent renewable energy, contributing to the company’s broader goals of carbon neutrality and resource efficiency. This focus on sustainable practices not only reduces the environmental impact of WEG’s operations but also supports European industries in meeting their own sustainability targets.
In Portugal, the new facility will create 100 new jobs, further contributing to economic development while reinforcing WEG’s role as a key player in the European industrial landscape.
“We began operations with a team of 154 people working for WEG in Portugal. Today, there are more than 750 of us, reflecting the continuous growth and success of our operations here,” added João Cardante, sales and marketing director at WEG Portugal. “This park is one of WEG’s largest facilities outside Brazil and plays an essential role in our global operation. In fact, most of the products manufactured in Portugal are exported to five continents, reflecting the quality and competitiveness of our products at a global level.”
As the only manufacturer of electric motors, motor control centres and medium and high-voltage soft starters in Portugal, WEG’s new Industrial Park is set to be a cornerstone of the company’s European operations, driving innovation, enhancing supply chain resilience and promoting sustainability.