GN Thermoforming sets up service center in Czech Republic

GN Thermoforming Equipment, a leading manufacturer of servo-driven, roll-fed thermoforming machines for the production of food packaging, has announced the opening of a new Service Center in Jihlava, Czech Republic, to further solidify its commitment to the European market. The new larger facility will help GN expand its European business in fast-growing markets in Europe and Russia, support its customers, and penetrate new growth opportunities, according to Jerome Romkey, GN marketing manager.

GN relocated from nearby offices to the new, larger 1000 sq. m. (11,000 sq ft) facility in Jihlava, about two hours from Vienna, Austria, and one hour from Prague. GN made its first entry into the Czech Republic more than eight years ago to tap into the growing packaging business in Europe and Russia. The current larger facility, which will open July 1, houses expanded operations including a demonstration center with sales and service offices.

“We’re happy with the steady growth we’ve seen in Europe,” said Romkey. “This expansion will take us to the next level and position us for further growth in key European markets.”

The larger facility will include a show room (including an inventory of thermoforming machines) which will be used for demonstration and training purposes. It will also house sales and service offices to offer complete support to GN’s European customers. The workforce will grow to seven with additional hiring in the future as the business continues to expand. Leading the technical service center will be Marek Nikiforov, GN Europe sales director.

 “This expansion will give our customers greater access,” said Romkey. “The demonstration equipment is an important sales tool that offers great value in helping customers assess the technology and make decisions.”

GN said the center will assist in promoting the latest developments in thermoforming. It will also offer opportunities to educational institutions and other industry-related organizations for training and product assessment purposes.GN plans to hold a series of open houses over the next year to showcase the facility to customers.