A network as a sustainable group system
The FM Metal Fasteners group has identified sustainability as one of its main growth drivers, starting with the major renovation and expansion project at its Reggio Emilia headquarters, gradually extending its energy saving and resource reuse objectives to all of the group's locations.
Sustainable redevelopment of warehouse and offices
The Reggio Emilia project involves expanding the warehouse and implementing a new logistics system: the two warehouses currently located in separate buildings will be combined into a modern and functional structure, designed to improve operational flow and the quality of the work environment. In 2024, the office building was renovated, replacing outdated systems, fixtures, and insulation with highly energy-efficient solutions to reduce consumption and improve workplace well-being.
A 150 kW photovoltaic system
A 150 kW photovoltaic system will be installed on the roof of the new department store. The energy produced will be used to support secondary operations, logistics, and local energy needs. The system is designed to optimize the use of solar energy even during off-peak periods. Any surplus will be fed into the grid or sold to the Energy Services Manager, contributing to more sustainable resource management.
A High Efficiency Hybrid System
One of the most innovative interventions concerns the heating of the buildings, where the old gas system has been replaced with a high-efficiency hybrid system consisting of heat pumps and condensing boilers. This configuration reduces gas consumption by leveraging aerothermal energy, with a limited environmental impact. The system is managed by an intelligent controller that regulates the alternation between the two sources, prioritizing the heat pump when conditions permit. The ventilation system has been optimized for the new layout to ensure comfort and reduce energy consumption. It is also designed for integration with photovoltaic systems, encouraging self-consumption and contributing to the transition to a more sustainable energy model.
As part of the warehouse's energy efficiency efforts, a self-closing high-speed roll-up door system was installed, designed to reduce heat loss thanks to its quick opening and closing and the presence of insulating panels. Air curtains (air curtains) have been integrated in some areas, limiting heat exchange with the outside, helping to maintain a stable internal temperature and reducing the load on the air conditioning systems.
Other coordinated actions for sustainability
The FM Group is carrying out a series of coordinated and complementary actions:
- Relamping in all locations, with the progressive replacement of neon lighting with low-consumption LEDs.
- New waste management process, based on innovative technologies to improve operational efficiency.
- Commitment to more sustainable packaging, with a gradual reduction in non-recyclable materials.
- Installation of 10 electric vehicle charging stations in the employee parking area.
- Redevelopment and expansion of green areas with native plants to make outdoor spaces more natural.
Maintenance and improvement of the working environment
FM Metal Fasteners Group has established new contracts with suppliers for scheduled plant maintenance: inspections and maintenance work, such as replacing fans and filters, are carried out annually to ensure optimal performance and a healthier working environment for employees.
Furthermore, the company has implemented dedicated software for analyzing historical consumption, which allows it to identify areas for improvement and adopt effective decision-making tools to optimize building operations, maximizing efficiency and sustainability.
The ISO 14000 certification path
The work already completed and planned for the future is aimed at achieving ISO 14001 certification, the voluntary international standard that defines the requirements for an environmental management system, by 2026. This process involves the entire FM Metal Fasteners Group SpA network, with all locations committed to updating their procedures to reduce environmental impact and improve production processes.
For FM Metal Fasteners, an effective environmental management system represents not only an important milestone, but also a concrete commitment to more responsible and sustainable production.
A sustainability model that accompanies the group's growth
The FM Metal Fasteners SpA Group model demonstrates how sustainability isn't a cost, but a high-return investment. All these initiatives are part of a structured project aimed at completing a multi-level transformation: energy, environmental, and organizational. This journey goes beyond individual actions, involving the entire company and its subsidiaries. Savings can be reinvested to improve other locations, fostering a culture of resource conservation and reuse, toward a more sustainable and efficient future.
"Investing today in clean technologies and efficient processes means laying the foundation for a solid and sustainable future," say company officials. "The savings achieved become the driving force behind new projects, creating a virtuous cycle of continuous growth that involves our entire operating network."
This integrated approach confirms that sustainability is the true driver of the group's progress and resilience, a path that looks confidently to the challenges of tomorrow.
