Celebrating 50 Years of Industrial Excellence

The Vetrotech Saint-Gobain production site in Romont, Switzerland, is celebrating 50 years of excellence and evolution. Established in 1975, the site has grown from a traditional glass processing facility into a core manufacturing site for fire-rated and high-security glazing. Over the years, continuous improvements in production methods and technology have enhanced efficiency and product quality, ensuring the site remains a strong industrial player.  

Since its founding by Saint-Gobain in 1975 as SABIAC ROMONT SA, the site has evolved from a glass storage and cutting facility into a specialized production center. The acquisition of the Giesbrecht Group, owner of Vetrotech, by Saint-Gobain in 1996 reinforced its role as a key transformation site in Switzerland. In 2010, Vetrotech’s Bern operations were relocated to Romont, marking the beginning of CONTRAFLAM fire-resistant glass production. The following years saw expansions in certifications, the introduction of VETROGARD security glazing, increased production capacity, and a reinforced focus on delivering high-quality products. Modernization efforts have further streamlined operations, improving efficiency and ensuring high service reliability. 

Additional digital tools have since been implemented to monitor machine utilization and optimize production by reducing microstoppages. A digital platform now tracks Key Performance Indicators and quality controls, providing valuable data for decision-making. 

Sustainability is a key focus of modernization at the site. Since 2019, it has run entirely on renewable hydropower, cutting CO₂ emissions by 600 metric tons annually. In 2024, over 3,200 photovoltaic panels were installed, generating 25% of the site's electricity needs. Additional efforts include optimizing glass-cutting technology, reducing waste by 20%, and creating green spaces to promote biodiversity, contributing to a more sustainable manufacturing process. 

Behind five decades of innovation and industrial excellence are the people who made it possible. Powered by a dedicated, multicultural team, the Romont site has continuously evolved thanks to the commitment, expertise, and adaptability of its people. From production to logistics and support, every employee plays a vital role in ensuring product quality and a safe, inclusive workplace. Guided by strong leadership and a shared culture of teamwork, transparency, and continuous improvement, the site has embraced change while keeping safety and well-being at the core. This collective effort has made Romont not only a benchmark in manufacturing, but also a great place to work. 

As the Romont site marks 50 years of operation, it continues to adapt to industry needs with a focus on efficiency, product quality, and responsible manufacturing. Building on its strong foundation and commitment to continuous improvement, the site is now ramping up production of Vetrotech’s latest innovation, CONTRAFLAM One, further reinforcing its position at the forefront of fire-resistant glass solutions. Vetrotech Saint-Gobain’s Romont site is well-positioned to meet the evolving challenges of the glass industry for years to come.