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B U S I N E S S A N D S U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N T R E P O R T
2010
DEPLOYING UNIQUE
INDUSTRIAL
EXPERTISE
Groupe SEB has built an international
industrial base which is geared to efciently
serve targeted markets in optimal competitive
conditions.
Pont-Evêque,
the world’s biggest factory
for steam-ironing systems.
These factors, combined with ongoing strategic rationalization of
our factories, ensure that we can be competitive. Finally, direct
control of production means the Group can guarantee the quality
of its products.
PRODUCTION IN LOW-COST COUNTRIES,
AN ADDITIONAL ADVANTAGE
However, for certain basic products with low added value,
the Group has equipped itself with industrial facilities in low-cost
countries. As our products are relatively small, there is no
obstacle to manufacturing them far from their intended markets.
PRODUCTION IN MATURE MARKETS,
THE POWER Of INNOVATION
Historically based in Europe, in particular in France, Groupe SEB
has always maintained a substantial industrial base in these
markets – unlike many of its rivals who have gradually relocated
their production to low-cost countries. This economic choice is
possible because of the Group’s deliberate policy of specializing its
factories by making them centres of expertise, which are then used
as a benchmark for the whole Group. Within this framework, we
encourage close working links between research, development,
marketing and production to facilitate the process of innovation.
This teamwork also involves sharing skills and know-how in such
areas as metal stamping, surface coating, plastics, or knowledge
of materials.
The decision to manufacture in Europe is justified when it is
focused on innovation, high added-value products and the
economies of scale made possible by automated facilities.
Proximity to markets is also a major advantage used by the Group
to further its expansion. Making products locally helps to reduce
indirect costs (logistics, import charges) and allows for more
efficient and rapid penetration of high-growth emerging markets.
Moreover, through its local industrial presence, the Group builds
up new technological and industrial expertise, which it can then
duplicate for the benefit of all its operations and markets.
Thus, in South America, Brazilian teams are the Group’s experts
in blenders and fans, while Supor in China is a source of
specialist knowledge in rice cooking and induction hobs.
Finally, the Group pools the experience and synergies of its
factories in order to offer increasingly relevant solutions to
consumers. For example, 2011 will see the arrival of a new range
of pressure cookers with an insert lid (typical in Brazil), and a
nonstick coating (from our Rumilly plant in France).
STRENGTHENED TEAMS TO HANDLE
SUPOR SUB-CONTRACTING
fOR THE GROUP: +80 STAff IN CHINA