Angers, September 13, 2024 – Expliseat, a pioneer in ultra-light seating technology, inaugurated its first assembly plant in Angers on September 13, in the presence of French representatives, the Pays de la Loire region, and the mayor of Angers, Jean Marc Verchère. This 6,000 m² facility significantly increases Expliseat’s production capacity and marks its transition into an industrial SME. This factory, a showcase for Made in France, represents a critical milestone in the company’s expansion.
Founded in 2011, Expliseat is a leader in the decarbonisation of transportation and has created the world’s lightest aircraft seat. Thanks to its unique technology, Expliseat reduces aircraft weight, lowering CO2 emissions per passenger by 6%. This innovation has attracted major airlines such as Air France and Air Canada. Today, more than 10,000 TiSeats are in service worldwide.
An Industrial Site at the Heart of Angers
Winner of the “First Factory” call for projects under France 2030, Expliseat is ramping up its industrial footprint by increasing its production capacity, which is expected to reach 37,000 seats per year by the end of 2024. With this factory, Expliseat is preparing for a significant production increase, as it will double the number of its seats in commercial service over the next 12 months, based on contracts already signed.
Expliseat has strategically chosen to locate its first in-house production line in France, a decision that has proven to be highly relevant both industrially and financially. This establishment contributes to the local and national economy by creating jobs and revitalizing the French industrial sector. The strategy is already yielding results: Expliseat has created 40 jobs in the past 12 months and plans to create an additional 80 by 2026.
A Cutting-Edge Industrial Site
With the support of committed shareholders and local authorities, Expliseat has set up its factory in a fully renovated building that combines industrial performance with environmental responsibility. The facility meets the highest standards in ergonomics, safety, and productivity, and is notable for its excellent energy performance (Energy Performance Certificate A).
The factory incorporates 4.0 technologies, which introduce automation into the production cycle. enhance production and assembly processes, improving productivity, quality, and ergonomics.
Finally, Expliseat has adopted an innovative HR policy, including a 35-hour workweek compressed into 4 days for operators, thus promoting work-life balance.
Expand its solution to new markets, including the rail sector
Building on its success in the aerospace industry, Expliseat is now expanding its technology to other sectors, including rail. This new train seat, up to 40% lighter than traditional models, promises to revolutionize the industry. The goal is to make rail travel a more competitive and appealing option by cutting train weight by up to 7 tons, all while ensuring passenger comfort.
Amaury Barberot, CEO of Expliseat, states: “The inauguration of this factory marks a turning point in Expliseat’s history. It embodies our vision of an innovative, responsible, and forward-looking French industry. We are truly proud to reach this industrial milestone alongside our institutional partners and investors. We have made significant strides in aerospace, and we are ready to apply the same energy to the rail sector!”
