New MCG steel factory opens in Portugal

Manitowoc Crane Group has opened a new factory in Baltar, Portugal for Potain tower cranes.

The new steel fabrication facility will run in conjunction with an existing factory in nearby Fanzeres which already produces Potain tower cranes and houses the group's EnCore repair and refurbishment service.

The opening event was attended by customers, dealers, company management and local officials. Glen Tellock, Manitowoc Company CEO, said the new plant was more than just a factory. “We are extremely proud to open this new facility and strengthen our presence in the important Iberica market. “Two of our core goals are to achieve manufacturing excellence and differentiate ourselves through customer proximity. That means establishing premium manufacturing processes and providing close and dedicated sales and service support. You will find both here at Baltar.”

The Baltar plant will produce Potain MC, MCT and MDT ranges. Operations at the two facilities are split into upstream and downstream functions. The upstream operations, the majority of cutting and welding, will take place at Baltar. Downstream operations, painting, assembly, testing and shipping, will take place at Fanzeres. The split will mean higher quality because both areas of production require different skills, levels of cleanliness, flow management and technology, said the company.

Manitowoc Crane Care also forms a large part of the Baltar plant's activities.