The Altachem team were presented with the award by Jo Brouns, the Flemish Minister of Social Economy and Agriculture at the Factory of the Future 2023 award ceremony on the 7th February at Technopolis Hall in Mechelen, Belgium.
The Factory of the Future Awards 2023 recognise future-oriented factories with the most advanced digital technologies used to implement intelligent and sustainable processes. Altachem is only the 50th company to receive the award so far in Belgium, with around just 4-5 companies a year achieving the prestigious status.
In order to obtain the Factory of the Future status Altachem had to meet various criteria set out in the programmes ‘7 Transformations’. This involved demonstrating its use of advanced manufacturing technologies, smart manufacturing and its role as a digital & eco focused factory. Alongside this, Altachem also proved itself as a human-centred organisation with strong networking relationships, and use of integrated engineering within its processes. Multiple factors were put forward to meet the auditors’ criteria including the company’s investments in assembly line machinery for reliable production, ERP systems for effective running of essential processes and AGVs (Automatic Guided Vehicles) to advance production efficiency.
Jean-Marie Poppe, Managing Director of Altachem said: “We are thrilled to be awarded with the factory of the future status. This award recognises the innovative processes that have been implemented in our factory over the last few years. It also gives credit to the hard work that our team puts in every day to provide our customers with the best service possible.”
Demonstrating people positivity
The award focuses not only on innovative technologies but also considers relationships developed with stakeholders. Altachem has continuously maintained strong relationships with partners, suppliers and customers. It has also invested in employee initiatives such as Altafit!, aimed at the promotion of healthy living and ‘Be The Change’ programme with the mission of ensuring employees are ready for the future of work. Wouter Van haute, Operations Manager at Altachem adds: “This award pays testament to our continuous improvement mindset with the target of striving for excellence. We have created a manufacturing ecosystem at Altachem with the aim of having consistently high levels of communication and efficiency throughout. We are proud of this recognition but will continue to innovate going forwards to carry on delivering a top-class service for our customers.”
