Earlier this week, Governor Andy Beshear and First Lady Britainy paid a visit to Germany — emissaries of the Commonwealth and the United States.
While on the trip, the two stopped at the global headquarters of Freudenberg Filtration Technologies in Weinhein — a company that employs more than 140 in its Hopkinsville facility.
In operation since 1975, it was the first to manufacture “nonwovens” for the ready-to-wear industry, and it began its production of filters for industrial applications and automotive uses in 1993.
According to written statements, Beshear and Freudenberg officials spent time discussing the company’s presence in the U.S., advancements in the field of battery-based energy solutions — and potential future business investments.
Dr. Alexander Rozmán, Freudenberg CEO, said the Hopkinsville plant continues to be “an important hub” for supplying North American customers, and as such, a “single-digit million-dollar investment” is coming to the facility over the next three years.
It will upgrade existing infrastructure and capacities, but will also introduce new technologies and processes that will “drive innovation and efficiency.”
For the past 11 years, FFT has been given the nod of “Honda Service Parts Supplier” Award, thanks to highly-efficient cabin air filters — manufactured in Hopkinsville — protecting drivers and passengers from harmful pollutants.
Last year, Freudenberg launched its battery manufacturing segments, and air filtration is critical in the lithium-ion battery manufacturing process. The company’s decision aligns well with Kentucky’s commitment to the electric vehicle battery industry, with the Commonwealth becoming a leading EV battery producer.
A 175-year-old company, Freudenberg Group employed more than 52,000 people over 60 countries by the end of 2023. In Hopkinsville, it’s located on 2975 Pembroke Road.
