BRUGG Pipes, in partnership with Rovanco Piping Systems, has opened a new chapter in production: our first manufacturing facility for the flexible pipe system CALPEX PUR-KING has officially started operations in the Chicago metropolitan area. This production launch marks a significant milestone in our international growth strategy and reinforces our presence in the North American market.
With the new site in Joliet, Illinois, we are responding directly to the growing demand for energy-efficient piping solutions for district and local heating in the United States. This demand is driven by government funding programmes, ambitious CO₂ reduction targets, and a rising need for climate-friendly infrastructure. CALPEX PUR-KING offers a future-proof solution: the flexible, pre-insulated pipe system delivers outstanding insulation values, high energy efficiency, and easy handling – making it ideal for underground networks for heat and chilled water distribution.
The plant was built in record time. Only around fourteen months passed between the founding of the joint venture with Rovanco in April 2024 and the start of operations. A new production hall was constructed, a state-of-the-art manufacturing line was installed, and the first market-ready pipe system has already been produced and will be delivered shortly.
We are particularly proud that around 80 percent of the raw materials used already come from within the United States. Establishing a functioning local supply chain was one of the biggest challenges during the project – and at the same time one of the most important prerequisites for long-term success. By sourcing materials locally, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also minimise dependencies on global supply chains. This ensures reliable and high-performance delivery capabilities right from the start.
A total of around 20 million US dollars was invested in the development of the new plant. The project was led by Pirmin Dahinden, a young Swiss professional from within the BRUGG Group, supported by an experienced team from Switzerland as well as our local partner, Rovanco Piping Systems. The production setup was accompanied by long-standing employees from our main plant in Kleindöttingen, Switzerland, who brought their expertise directly into the new facility – ensuring high product quality and efficiency from the outset.
With the commissioning of our plant in the USA, we are sending a clear message: we are ready for the next phase of growth and now even closer to our customers in North America. Martin Rigaud, CEO of BRUGG Pipes, emphasises: “With our new production facility in the US, we are increasing planning reliability for our customers, reducing delivery times and transport costs, and are no longer affected by potential US tariffs. This gives us a crucial competitive edge in the current market environment.”