Outokumpu has expanded the stock and processing capacity of its service center in Willich in Germany. The expansion supports the company's strategy to strengthen its service center network with the aim to increase sales to end-users and project customers, and to retain the stable relationship with distributors and processors.

The construction work was based on an investment decision in 2007. The project consisted of increasing the site area, doubling the service center hall and installing of a new 2 meter cut to length line and a new 650 mm slitting line. The expansion has doubled the production capacity from 60,000 tonnes to 125,000 tonnes. The total investment was EUR 26.5 million.

Mr Cay Nasner VP Central Europe said “Germany is the largest stainless steel market in Europe. After the expansion we are now well positioned to serve our customers and ensure optimal deliveries of standard and special products. With the modern lines and wide service offering we can meet the growing demands of existing and potential stainless steel customers.”

Outokumpu's production capabilities in Germany are completed by the Plate Service Center in Gingen, Southern Germany.