Highlights: Results of investment in a new fridge and freezer facility plant in Anderson, South Carolina, U.S.
- New freezer with consumer star rating of 4.4
- Automation level increased by over 20 percentage points
- CO₂ emissions reduced by 95%
- Water consumption reduced by 35%
Accelerated time to market
By using modularized product architectures, we significantly leverage our global scale and accelerate innovation speed. Quick response to changing consumer demands is key to stay competitive and drive profitable growth. New products manufactured at the Anderson factory have been very well received by consumers. The highest volume top freezer has a consumer star rating of 4.4 and is among the most sold in that category at major U.S. retail chains, valued particularly for its design and features.
Modularization and automation
Modularization also allows increased flexibility and lower costs for material. Simultaneously, robotization of large parts of the assembly line increases the automation level by over 20 percentage points compared to previous production processes. Altogether, this development translates into considerably increased efficiency, while also improving quality and safety.
Reduced CO2 emissions through resource efficient process
The new production facility at Anderson has also entailed significant environmental gains. The more resource efficient manufacturing process at the new facility has resulted in reduced CO₂ emissions by 95%, while using 35% less water and 24% less electricity, compared with 2015. At the same time, almost 90% of the site’s energy consumption comes from renewable energy sources. The predominantly electric production process has reduced the use of natural gas to a minimum.
Sustainability gains throughout the product’s life cycle
However, the environmental gains are not limited to the manufacturing process. The entire life cycle of a fridge or a freezer have become more sustainable. All fridges and freezers produced at the Anderson plant are converted to a new refrigerant, substantially reducing the climate footprint. R&D efforts have created energy-efficient appliances that helps food stay fresh longer. Finally, when the appliance has reached the end-of-life many of the parts are recyclable.