Vitro/AFG Float Glass Plant Started Operations

Vitro AFG is a 50/50 joint venture of Vitro Plan, S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of Vitro, S.A. de C.V. and AFG Industries Inc., a subsidiary of Asahi Glass Company in the United States of America.

The Vitro AFG $100 million dollar investment by Vitro Plan, S.A. de C.V. and AFG Industries will supply the United States of America, Canada, and Mexico construction markets with a broad range of products from traditional clear for glazing, heavy glass up to 8mm, and even mirror and coating quality glass. The joint venture was initiated in 2001.

Originally a container facility owned by Vitro, the Mexicali operation has been totally converted over the last 12 months into the most modern of float glass plants capable of manufacturing high quality flat glass. The plant will employ 226 people.

“This plant creates a strategic alliance between two key global leaders, will allow our companies to grow our production and enhance competitive services to our separate customers. This Joint venture is a significant opportunity for both companies. It is the beginning of a brilliant future”, said Federico Sada, CEO of Vitro.

Luc Willame, Senior Executive Vice President of Asahi, and President of the Flat Glass Division, stated, “Roger Kennedy, President & CEO of AFG, and his team recognized the current Western United States and Canada supply/demand imbalance and quickly responded to the challenge with this venture. The new Mexicali plant will enable AFG to supplement the effort of our Victorville, CA operation with conistent, quality glass products. Our customers will have a seamless, reliable source of glass now - and in the future - from this new facility.” The Mexicali facility will be operated by with a management team selected by both Vitro and AFG, and will be managed by a jointly appointed Board of Directors. The plant will principally be supported by the Vitro Flat Glass business unit.