Insight

Welcome to the 2024 Janus Perspective, a unique feature that includes a wide cross section of global fastener business leaders. Named after the Roman God 'Janus' – who had the ability to look to the future and to the past, and was often depicted with having two faces – this feature brings together thought leaders from every facet of the industry, from around the world, to give us their retrospective on 2023, as well as prospects and challenges for 2024.

Jody Brugola, president

As 2023 draws to a close, Brugola OEB reflects on a year marked by resilience, growth and a constant commitment to its strategic expansion plan, which will see the company achieve turnover close to €200 million. The company’s dedication to investment, expansion, human resources, and sustainability initiatives, has not only positioned it as a leader in the fastener industry, but has also set the stage for continued success in 2024 and beyond.

In the face of a dynamic business landscape, Brugola OEB demonstrated an unwavering commitment to its growth path throughout 2023. The strategic expansion plan, including machinery, production site, and human resources, unfolded with precision and dedication.

The introduction of 11 new machines in 2023 were essential in fortifying Brugola’s commitment to Industry 4.0 principles. This significant investment has pushed the company to higher levels of automation, technological transformation, productivity and energy efficiency. The notable increase of between 10% to 15% in daily production, translating to over 200 tonnes of fasteners, underscores the positive impact of these advancements on Brugola’s production capabilities.

The expansion of production spaces, with the addition of a new plant exceeding 1,000m² – dedicated to the cold forming phase, reflects Brugola’s strategic approach to enhancing production efficiency. The company’s ability to adapt to changing market trends and embrace innovative technologies positions it as a pioneer in the fastener industry.

The company’s expansion plan extends beyond machinery, reaching into the heart of its operations – its people. The addition of around 50 new employees in January 2024 is a demonstration of Brugola OEB’s commitment to promoting a supportive and inclusive workplace. The company’s welfare policies not only support the personal lives of its collaborators, but also reflect a deep sense of responsibility towards the local community of Lissone and its surroundings – to the north of Milan.

As Brugola OEB generates new job opportunities, it not only contributes to the economic growth of the region but also strengthens the fabric of the community, recognising that its success is intrinsically tied to the well-being of its employees and the broader community it serves.

Amid global concerns about environmental sustainability, Brugola OEB is not merely a producer of fasteners but a conscientious steward of the environment. The company’s commitment to sustainability policies is a proactive step towards a greener future.

Since 2019, the company has been implementing a series of projects to reduce its carbon footprint – from decreasing the use of plastic and paper in the production process; energy efficiency projects that aim to decrease electricity; to giant bamboo plantations that offset CO₂ emissions.

In 2024, Brugola OEB is poised to make further investments that align with its green objectives. The ambitious goal of lowering CO₂ emissions by over 70% by 2030, and achieving carbon neutrality by 2035, underscores the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices.

With a rich history spanning 98 years, Brugola OEB’s journey has been defined by dedication, expertise and a relentless pursuit of innovation. The company’s evolution to adapt to changing market trends and embrace new technologies has positioned it as a leader in the fastener industry, particularly in the automotive sector.

Beyond being a manufacturer, Brugola OEB is an innovator, consistently developing adaptable solutions to navigate the challenges of the automotive market and its transitions. The key to Brugola OEB’s success lies in its collaborative approach with customers, understanding their specific needs and co-creating advanced products that meet the dynamic demands of the market.

As the business looks ahead to 2024, it acknowledges the challenges and opportunities that lie on the horizon. The increase in costs of electricity, gas, inflation, and labour, in 2023 posed challenges for the company and for the entire supply chain. The company’s responsiveness to these challenges, reflected in the adjustment of prices to align with market demands, demonstrated its resilience and adaptability.

Brugola OEB and the fastener supply chain will continue to pay attention to economic and financial development. The company is ready to navigate the changing economic landscape, facing challenges and seeking innovative solutions. Moreover, the fastener industry is at the cusp of technological transformations. Brugola OEB recognises the importance of staying ahead of these changes and is committed to prioritising technology and regulatory compliance to ensure its continued leadership in the market.

In conclusion, Brugola OEB’s journey in 2023 was one of dynamic growth, innovation and sustainability. The company’s strategic expansion plan has not only enhanced its production capabilities but has also underscored its commitment to people, community and environmental responsibility. As it steps into 2024, the company is poised for continued success, navigating challenges with resilience and embracing opportunities with a forward-thinking vision. The legacy of dedication and innovation pushes Brugola OEB towards a future where it not only leads the industry in the production of fasteners for the mobility market, but also contributes to a sustainable and prosperous global community.