Metso Outotec says it is developing its global supply chain operations by reorganising its screening media production in North and Central America, with the opening of new capacity in Mexico and the discontinuing of operations in Missouri, USA.

The new screening media production capacity in Irapuato, Mexico, is planned to significantly increase supply and delivery capabilities for mining and aggregates customers in the region. The new factory in Mexico will start operations gradually during the first half of 2023 and, once fully operational during the September quarter, is expected to double the total production capacity by 2024 compared with the current level.

The new screening media center is expected to employ around 46 people.

Today, Metso Outotec has approximately 370 employees in its rubber and Poly-Met operations in Mexico. In 2022, Metso Outotec announced it would invest in establishing its first polymer filter plate production unit in Mexico.

The screening media production in Warrenton, Missouri, will be ramped down by the end of 2023, with the closure expected to affect approximately 40 employees in total.

Heikki Metsälä, President, Consumables Business Area, said: “We will serve customers with shorter lead times and faster deliveries by utilising a production site optimised for screening media products. The new factory is located close to our rubber and Poly-Met factory in Irapuato, and it further strengthens Mexico’s position as a centre of expertise for producing high-quality consumables.

“Our global supply footprint is under continuous development to ensure sustainable and profitable growth and to serve our customers’ growing needs. Closing a factory is a hard but necessary decision to make. We will support our employees throughout the transition.”