Benteler starts work on advanced manufacturing plant in Morocco, boosting job creation and integrating Industry 4.0 technologies

With spades in the ground and ministers on site, Benteler has officially launched construction of its new manufacturing plant in Kenitra, Morocco. The site, located within the Atlantic Free Zone, reflects the growing strategic importance of the North African country to global automotive supply chains.

The automotive component company will invest a mid-double-digit million-euro amount during the plant’s ramp-up phase. Once operational in 2026, the site is expected to generate more than 300 direct jobs, supported by training programmes and career development opportunities. The broader value chain is expected to benefit as well, with further indirect employment likely across the regional ecosystem.

“The Kenitra plant will be a smart facility from day one – it brings together cutting-edge technology and highly trained teams to enhance efficiency and production. By relying on modern, proven technologies, we will deliver the high-quality products our customers expect”

- Nissrine Braimi, Customer Line Director at Benteler Automotive Components.

“We can’t wait to open our new plant in Kenitra and thereby further expand our global presence,” said Matthias Siemer, President of Benteler Automotive Components Europe. “Morocco offers us relevant locational advantages. It’s a modern country with a strong automotive industry, plus the country’s geography and infrastructure also allow us to optimise logistics.”

That strategic positioning was underlined at the groundbreaking ceremony by Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour. “We welcome Benteler’s decision to invest in our country and create hundreds of new jobs in Kenitra. This project further strengthens the momentum of our automotive ecosystem,” he said.

“It confirms the rise of Morocco as a major industrial and technological platform and highlights the kingdom’s increasing appeal to leading global industry players.”

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Embedding proven technology with digital ambition

Production at the new facility will focus on key chassis and body components for a major OEM, including front and rear bumpers, twist beam rear axles, crash struts and control arms. The plant will be equipped with a full suite of modern industrial equipment, such as a 3,200-ton cold stamping press, cathodic dip coating systems, advanced welding equipment and a 3D laser system.

However, the ambition is not limited to proven machinery alone. The site will be a showcase for Benteler’s SMART FACTORIES initiative, embedding Industry 4.0 capabilities from the outset. These include Big Data analytics, its proprietary Smart Production Data Platform, and a network of connectivity solutions designed to create fully integrated and intelligent production flows.

“The Kenitra plant will be a smart facility from day one – it brings together cutting-edge technology and highly trained teams to enhance efficiency and production. By relying on modern, proven technologies, we will deliver the high-quality products our customers expect,” said Nissrine Braimi, Customer Line Director at BENTELER Automotive Components.

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Sustainability, location and local supply

In keeping with its broader environmental goals, Benteler’s decision to invest in Morocco also reflects the country’s commitment to clean energy. “Morocco has a high proportion of renewable energy sources, which is ideally suited to our ambitions in the area of sustainability,” said Siemer.

The plant itself will be built on a 50,000-square-metre site, with 17,000 square metres dedicated to the main production hall. Its position within the Atlantic Free Zone offers direct access to the freeway and convenient links to the port of Tangier, a critical logistics hub connecting North Africa to European and global markets.

“In line with our ‘local-for-local’ approach, we will be producing as close as possible to our customers to ensure flexible and reliable delivery,” said Siemer.

This expansion marks another chapter in Morocco’s emergence as a preferred destination for global manufacturers seeking efficient, connected, and sustainable operations at scale.