In a strategic move to optimize its production capacity and efficiency, Sika is transferring two of its powder lines from its Alcobendas plant, close to Madrid, to the former MBCC plant in Cabanillas del Campo, near Guadalajara. The project, which was initiated shortly after the closing of the MBCC acquisition last year, was successfully implemented with the first products being produced in March 2024, thanks to the close collaboration and dedication of the Sika and former MBCC teams.
The aim of the transfer was to free up some space at the Alcobendas plant, which produces various technologies including powder and epoxy products, for future growth and expansion. Two main mortar lines were moved to the Cabanillas del Campo plant, which had available capacity and was located within 50 km of the Alcobendas plant.
The project involved several challenges, such as adapting to the different plant set-up, raw material silos and production process at the Cabanillas del Campo plant. However, the project team, led by the project manager Jesus Mari Gutiérrez together with the MBCC plant manager Carmen Juárez, managed to overcome these difficulties and achieve operational excellence.
Not only did they move the products while keeping the same product performance and quality, but they also optimized the production process at the Cabanillas del Campo plant by leveraging the joint expertise and knowledge of the Sika and MBCC teams. They also received support from the regional teams, including Georgios Papageorgiou, who helped with the technical aspects of the transfer. Moreover, the project resulted in upgrading and investing in the Cabanillas del Campo plant, making it more modern and efficient.
The key lessons from this project are the importance of teamwork, commitment, clear definition of roles and responsibilities, as well as alignment and collaboration between the teams. The project team, which consisted of representatives from R&D, operations and business, worked together towards a common goal and delivered the project on time and within budget. The project also demonstrated the value of cross-functional and cross-cultural synergies, as the Sika and former MBCC teams learned from each other and shared best practices.
"I am proud of the achievements of the joint team. With this operations move, we are ready for future growth with efficient production processes. This project clearly showed the strength and expertise we have in our group – from R&D, business as well as operations." Jorge Hernandez, Operations Manager Spain