Flanders Make in Kortrijk must keep West Flemish industry competitive (Kortrijk)

Flanders Make Kortrijk opened its doors on Thursday and is the third research center for technological development and innovation for the manufacturing industry after Lommel and Leuven. The intention is that companies test new technologies and production methods here and that they are guided in an optimal investment process for their production environment.

“Only through deep innovation can our industry and manufacturing companies remain competitive and contribute sustainably to prosperity in our region,” says Urbain Vandeurzen, chairman of the board of directors of Flanders Make. “Here in Kortrijk, these innovations will find their way to the food, textile and pharmaceutical industries, but also the construction, agricultural and logistics sectors.”

Flemish Prime Minister Jan Jambon (N-VA), who came especially to Kortrijk to cut the ceremonial ribbon, attaches great importance to Flanders Make. “We have the necessary knowledge and experience in Flanders. Through Flanders Make we now put this at the maximum benefit of our large and small companies and society.”

30 million euros

Flanders Make Kortrijk cost 30 million euros to build the center and purchase equipment. 50 researchers will work there. Spread over the three centers in Kortrijk, Lommel and Leuven and the five Flemish universities, a total of 850 researchers are working, all at the service of the companies. “Flanders Make is for everyone, both large players and SMEs. The only requirement is that the company has an innovation focus,” says Grisja Lobbestael, CEO of Flanders Make.