Duravit has officially opened its new manufacturing site in Matane, Canada – a landmark facility that uses exclusively electric power to fire sanitary ceramics, signalling a major shift for an industry traditionally defined by high energy use. The plant also advances the brand’s local-for-local strategy, with products for North America now produced within the region.
Around 80 guests attended the opening, including representatives from politics, business, and the media. Duravit was represented by Christian Gilles, head of production in Canada; COO Thomas Stammel; and CMO Lüder Fromm. Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Gregor Greinert, was also present, highlighting the board’s strong support.
The C$90m investment forms a core part of Duravit’s global growth strategy. Production has begun with 102 employees, set to rise to 240 by 2027. The 35,000sq m plant will deliver up to 450,000 ceramic washbasins and toilets annually for the North American market, maintaining the brand’s recognised standards for precision and durability. Its location on the Saint Lawrence River enables short transport routes, while access to a deep-sea port and clean, cost-effective energy were key in selecting the site.
Powered almost entirely by Québec hydroelectricity, the factory’s electrical roller kilns – supplied by Riedhammer of the SACMI Group – eliminate the need for fossil fuels. With 99.6% renewable electricity and shorter logistics routes, the site reduces carbon emissions by around 9,000 tonnes per year. The 100m kilns fire more than 600 parts daily at 1,260°C, and waste heat is reused in drying and casting.
The project received a C$19m repayable contribution from Economic Development Canada and an C$11m loan from Investissement Québec via the ESSOR programme. Support from the Matane regional municipality also played a key role.
“The Matane region has shown us a huge amount of trust and support from the start. For us, this factory is more than a manufacturing site – it’s a collaborative project with the local community,” said Christian Gilles, head of production for Duravit Canada.
Founded in 1817, Duravit continues to combine craftsmanship with advanced technology. The new plant strengthens its international expansion and supports its goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2045. The company’s commitment to long-lasting, timeless design remains central, with durability contributing directly to resource conservation and sustainability.
