Şişecam will acquire the Italian company Refel. a refractory materials manufacturer. Refractory materials are used in the construction of glass melting furnaces and is crucial for the timely commissioning of investments in accordance with planned schedules. With this acquisition, Şişecam aims to eliminate risks related to the disrupted supply chain and secure its refractory supply in order to realize its new investments in glass manufacturing on schedule.
Şişecam Chairman of the Board Prof. Ahmet Kırman, regarding Şişecam's decision to purchase Refel S.p.A., says, “The world has entered a period of great change. No country or sector has escaped unscathed after the onset of the global pandemic. This new era is characterized by volatile conditions globally. The ability to adapt effectively to changing conditions due to breaks in the supply chain is now one of the most important competencies that we should all have. In such an environment, companies that have sufficiently prepared to adapt quickly to ever-changing conditions to meet their goals will continue to develop and grow. … Securing the supply of critical materials is absolutely imperative today during this time of widespread supply chain disruptions.”
One of the most critical issues for glass furnace investments and cold repairs to be completed in accordance with planned schedules is refractory materials supply. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Kırman explained,
“Refractory is a material of strategic importance in glass furnace investments. Especially during times of intensive investment across the sector, refractory lead times can change significantly and can delay the completion dates of furnace investments,” says Kırman. “The unavailability of this material can double the time required to complete cold repairs in glass melting furnaces. The acquisition of refractory manufacturer Refel will ensure that the supply risks Şişecam may face will be eliminated. The acquisition will remove any obstacles to realizing our investments in the planned schedule and reaching capacities that are in line with our growth projections at the right time. … Acquiring Refel will strengthen Şişecam's strategic position in the European and global glass industry. Şişecam will also become a major player in the ever-developing and growing refractory industry.”
Producing fused cast refractories, Refel has been operating in Northern Italy since 1986. Refel has been a part of LIVIA Group, an independent industrial holding, and private investment firm, since 2017. Boasting automated production capabilities that are fully computer controlled, Refel produces and sells an extensive range of refractory products for use in different types of glass furnaces under its own brand. Taking into account the environmental impacts of its production operations, Refel complies with Şişecam's sustainability-focused policies where the environment is a top priority. =
“Şişecam's strong RD&T and design capabilities which also extends to furnace designs will enable us to introduce many innovative products and technologies to the glass industry in the refractory field. Şişecam aims to expand the area of benefit where it creates sustainable value for all its stakeholders with this latest investment toward vertical integration. Şişecam will also become a major player in the ever-developing and growing refractory industry,” Kırman says.
