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Imerys looks to the automotive industry

Martin Baelden
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August 28, 2024

According to investment experts, the recovery of the automotive industry after the health crisis brought the sector to a halt could well benefit Imerys. Indeed, the composition of a car includes no less than thirty minerals. Mineral production and processing is Imerys' speciality. The company is present in this sector in nearly 50 countries with almost 250 industrial facilities, including 47 in France, and employs more than 16,000 people.

Despite this optimistic outlook, the automotive sector remains very cautious at the beginning of the year, as it is still uncertain. Indeed, component shortages continue to penalise production and this is likely to have repercussions on sales and employment in dealerships.

Public subsidies and institutional support at arm's length in 2021 do not make up for the lack of supply of semiconductors, and technical unemployment with whole production lines being shut down is still looming.

It can also be noted that the purchase of new cars is gradually shifting towards a senior clientele. Only a few brands and electric cars appeal to a younger audience. Has the car become a product for wealthy households, or even simply a luxury product? In any case, many households no longer have access to them.

So yes, the automotive industry is waiting feverishly to regain a production capacity that will reassure companies in the sector like Imerys and their employees. Customers too, who are desperate to see their very expensive orders arrive one day!