3M to build three factories in Poland

US diversified technology company 3M announced Wednesday that it is to invest $50 million (€42 million) to build three factories in Wroclaw, in southwestern Poland.

One of the plants will produce optical films for liquid crystal display (LCD) screens, another adhesive material, and the third orthodontic products.

"The optical film factory, which will produce films which improve the image on electronic screens, is directly linked to the investment projects in Poland of LG-Philips and Sharp," Ilona Gajewska, spokeswoman for 3M Poland, said.

LG-Philips is building an LCD-screen factory in Wroclaw, and Sharp has announced similar plans.

Production of optical films at the 3M factory is expected to begin in March or April next year. The optical film factory, which represents 60 percent or $30 million of 3M's $50 million investment, will initially provide jobs for around 100 people.

The two other factories are expected to come online in 2008.

3M already produces adhesive first aid dressings and bandages in Poland. The company's turnover in Poland last year was $130 million.
Source:metimes.com