Since its formation as a separate division within EADS in 2008, Aerolia has moved quickly to pursue its objective of becoming one of the leanest aerostructures manufacturers in the world.
It has already announced its intention to focus on critical elements of the manufacturing process to develop a revolutionary new working relationship with its key suppliers to manage other activities.
As part of this approach it has signed a five-year agreement with ThyssenKrupp Aerospace to manage material procurement, processing and supply which will both reduce Aerolia's overall costs and improve the efficiency of its materials supply chain. This contract will give Aerolia the opportunity to invest in new developments such as composites and other technologies.
As part of the agreement, ThyssenKrupp Aerospace will invest in a new facility at Albert in Picardie and will invest in inventories, warehousing and equipment elsewhere. This network will provide a responsive service to Aerolia's operations in St Nazaire, Méaulte and Tunisia and to a wide range of their subcontractors throughout France and in other countries.
Overall ThyssenKrupp Aerospace will manage the metallic supply chain for Aerolia including the storage, processing and supply of up to 10,000 tonnes of aluminium per year.
Stuart Wilkins, president of ThyssenKrupp Aerospace said: “We are delighted to support this initiative and to be selected as Aerolia's preferred supplier. We fundamentally believe that closer working relationships between major aerospace companies and their supply base will drive cost optimisation and improve supply security. This agreement is a first in France and indicates the way forward for the whole aerospace materials supply chain.”
www.thyssenkruppaerospace.com
