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Shape Corp. starts production in industrial zone Panattoni Park Pilsen West II. The leading manufacturer of components for the automotive industry employs up to 700 people

One of the leading manufacturers of components for the automotive industry Shape Corp. starts production in a new facility with total area of 36 400 square meters. The industrial complex, which was built by the development company Panattoni, was created on the brownfield site, where used to be coal mines. Shape Corp. moved here from the Borská pole to expand its production capacity. The company is a major employer in the Pilsen region and the new plant will employ up to 700 people.

Shape Corp. launched its European subsidiary, Shape Corp. Czech Republic, s.r.o., in the Pilsen region in early 2011. Specializing in the advanced development and manufacturing of automotive lightweighting, crash management, and body structure systems, the subsidiary has enjoyed stable growth in both its customer base and product range. This new facility consolidates operations from four different sites under one roof, streamlining manufacturing workflows and internal logistics, while creating additional space for future expansion. With its unique process of advanced roll-forming of ultra-high-strength steel profiles, secondary operations, and welding of final assemblies, the plant serves customers all around Europe. Equipped with the latest technologies and industry-leading machinery, the facility amplifies Shape Corp.'s dedication to delivering multi-material solutions and high-quality products.

The new complex also features a host of modern amenities, including an in-house canteen, a fitness center, an outdoor relaxation zone, and an advanced TCL air filtration system for indoor air quality.

“We want to be a role model as a global company where sustainability is at the heart of our project, enabling us to reduce our footprint. We are embracing electrification for a cleaner tomorrow, bringing our expertise to automotive evolution. The plant will set a benchmark in automation, encompassing aspects such as material flow optimization and the utilization of autonomous guided vehicles to cutting-edge welding technology. These advancements will enhance the safety and efficiency of our work. The BREEAM New Construction certification is key in achieving our overall sustainable vision to be carbon neutral by 2035,” says Stephanie Ducroux-Bernache, Managing Director of Shape Europe.

The modern facility meets all the strict requirements of the BREEAM New Construction environmental certification, and it aspires to the highest rating – Outstanding. Photovoltaic panels are installed on the building, it also uses flushing with rainwater. In the surroundings there are facilities for going cycling, covered bicycle parking or an insect hotel.

“The Pilsen region is an ideal place for industrial production and logistics thanks to its rich industrial tradition, excellent transport infrastructure, the presence of university and geographical proximity to Germany. The potential of the location is still great, which can be proved by the presence of huge manufacturing companies, such as Shape Corp. I’m glad we can build on the region manufacturing facilities with added value and thus help to fulfill the Pilsen Region Strategy 2022+,” says Klára Sobotková, Regional Development Director, Panattoni.