Knauf unites two divisions under one roof at French production site

On July 16, 2025, the Knauf Group celebrated the successful collaboration of two business units – Knauf Insulation and Knauf Ceiling Solutions – at a single site in Illange, Grand Est, France.

The official inauguration of the new Knauf Ceiling production site was attended by Isabel Knauf representing the Knauf family, Jörg Kampmeyer, General Partner of the Knauf Group, Lars Klodwig, Member of the Group Management Committee for Ceiling Solutions and Cement Boards and the President of the Regional Council of Grand Est, Franck Leroy, as well as further local authorities.

Knauf established a production plant for rock wool insulation in Illange in 2019. With the recent expansion, the site now includes a state-of-the-art facility for ceiling solutions, where rock wool will be used to launch a new product line for mineral ceilings.

Knauf has invested approximately 100 million euros in the Illange expansion, creating over 50 new jobs. This investment was subsidised by the regional administration of Grand Est with 3 million euros.

“Even in a challenging environment for the European construction sector, we never questioned this major investment. On the contrary, we moved forward with determination to establish one of the most modern and sustainable production sites for ceiling solutions in Europe,” said Jörg Kampmeyer.

“This day is not just about opening a Knauf plant. It’s about the positive impact this site will have on society: creating jobs, reducing carbon emissions, and driving long-term regional development. Illange represents one of Knauf’s largest investments in Europe,” Lars Klodwig added.

Sustainability was a key focus in planning and constructing the site. The facility operates with zero waste, as all production waste is recycled. Additionally, the new ceiling tile production process is designed to minimise water consumption. Thanks to the plant’s electrification, CO₂ emissions have been significantly reduced. By 2026, photovoltaic modules will be installed, enabling the site to achieve an average self-consumption rate of 50%.

Knauf’s significant investment in Illange earned the company the Choose France Award 2024 in the ‘Ecological Transition and Decarbonisation’ category. Presented by Business France, the official agency of the French government for promoting international investment in France, and supported by several ministries, the award recognises companies making strategic, sustainable investments in France.

“This Knauf Ceiling Solutions site, with its technological and environmental ambition, sets a course. It shows that industry can be both high-performing and responsible, innovative and respectful, local and internationally oriented. The Grand Est region is proud to have contributed to it and will remain by your side as a demanding but committed partner,” Franck Leroy emphasized.

The Knauf Group has a strong presence in France, operating 32 production sites across 29 locations and employing over 2,200 people.