Resuming Operations in Valais

Constellium is proud to recognize the restart of operations at our Valais, Switzerland site following the devastating floods that affected the region in June 2024. The plant, which produces aluminum extrusions and plates for a variety of industries, was covered in thick mud after the waters receded and its machinery required meticulous cleaning and restoration over several months. 

A collective effort

The damage was significant—including costs of over $100 million and three months until power was fully restored—but the response was extraordinary. Employees from Valais, supported by colleagues across the Constellium network, particularly in Singen, Germany and Issoire, France, where some production was redirected, worked tirelessly to clean up, repair, and rebuild. Their efforts, combined with the steadfast support of local authorities, suppliers, and customers, made this recovery possible.

Giuseppe (Joe) D’Errico, Director of the plant’s Automotive Structures & Industry operations, began his first day at Constellium the day after the flood. He sees the recovery as a powerful testament of crisis management, the strength of collaboration, and the remarkable resilience of people who come together through adversity. “The victory of this restart doesn’t belong to Valais alone—it belongs to all of Constellium,” said Joe. “It was a collective triumph of spirit and solidarity, and we can all be proud of the result.” 

“We are deeply grateful for the steadfast support of our customers, suppliers, and the local authorities in the Valais,” said Paul Robillard, Director of Aerospace and Transportation operations at Valais. “Their trust and partnership gave us the confidence and momentum to come back stronger.”

True to that promise, Constellium took the opportunity not only to rebuild but to make upgrades to improve operational efficiency at the plant and to bolster protections against potential future flooding. 

Honoring excellence

In April 2025, the Valais team was honored with a special Constellium THANK YOU Award, celebrating their outstanding dedication and teamwork throughout the recovery process. In presenting the award, Constellium CEO Jean-Marc Germain remarked, “To every who supported the recovery effort, but especially to the employees in the Valais, thank you! Your courage, tenacity, teamwork, and unbreakable spirit have been a true inspiration and you exemplify the resilience of Constellium and our ability to rise to any challenge.”

The Valais plant’s successful restart demonstrates the strength of Constellium’s community and its ability to turn challenges into opportunities.