James Hardie Europe Expands Orejo Plant, Boosting Sustainable Building Material Production
James Hardie Europe has completed a major expansion at its Orejo plant, boosting production of premium fermacell floor and wall systems. The upgraded facility now stands as one of the world's most advanced gypsum fiberboard manufacturing sites, increasing output to meet rising demand across Europe. The project also creates more jobs, with the workforce growing from 75 in 2021 to 121 in early 2026. Construction of the new production line began in May 2021, receiving final approval that November. By its launch in 2024, the facility had already set higher standards in efficiency, sustainability, and product quality. Fermacell's gypsum fiberboards, made from 100% natural materials, also hold an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for their ecological benefits.
The expansion supports three key markets: residential housing, commercial properties, and renovation projects. Since the plant's opening, demand for fermacell façade and roofing solutions has surged by over 25%, driven by increased construction activity and stricter sustainability requirements. The company now supplies a full range of gypsum fiberboard products, reinforcing its role in modern timber construction, innovative flooring, and drywall systems. Jürgen Hartmann, Operations Director for Europe, highlighted the facility's role in advancing operational excellence. With further hiring planned, the Orejo site expects to employ 160 people by the end of the expansion. The new line also ensures a steady supply of high-performance, resource-efficient materials across the continent.
The Orejo plant's expansion strengthens James Hardie Europe's ability to serve the entire European market. More jobs, greater efficiency, and sustainable production methods position the company for continued growth in construction sectors. Demand for its eco-friendly building solutions is projected to keep rising in the coming years.
