The dental company has been consistently implementing its ‘Local4Local’ strategy since 2023. “Our aim is to bring production closer to the markets we serve. With this approach, we strengthen our supply chain resilience and flexibility while enhancing our customer proximity. Local production also makes it easier to meet regional requirements and regulatory standards,” says Stefan Riegler, Chief Production Officer of the Ivoclar Group. 

Local production also offers operational advantages. Shorter transport routes and greater regional value creation can help streamline processes and use resources more efficiently. Ivoclar’s aim is to integrate economic, environmental and logistical priorities in a responsible way. 

A key logistics component of the ‘Local4Local’ initiative is the company’s Global Distribution Center in Ellwangen (DE), which became operational in 2021. Further investments have followed in recent years: In 2023, Ivoclar opened a new logistics site in Leicester (UK), followed in 2024 by a new warehouse with an integrated Customer Care and Repair Center in São Paulo (BR). Currently, the company is converting its distribution centre in Amherst (USA) into an automated warehouse.  

In addition to logistics, the company is consistently advancing major initiatives in production. Its production network currently spans five sites: Bürs (AT), Schaan (FL), Manila (PH), Naturns (IT) and Somerset (USA). Ivoclar now plans to open a further site in Shanghai (CN). A Letter of Intent was signed to that effect at the Xinzhuang Industrial Park in April 2026.  

This approach will allow Ivoclar to combine global market proximity with worldwide exacting production and quality standards. Precisely coordinated processes, stringent material and manufacturing requirements and a tightly integrated international production and logistics network ensure that customers around the world can rely on the same premium quality wherever they are. 

Minhang District near Shanghai has been selected as the site for the new facility because it offers excellent conditions for the project. The region is a well-established hub for industry and innovation and hosts numerous international companies, including firms from Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Modern infrastructure, a strong pool of skilled workers and proximity to partners and customers further strengthen the case for the location. With production scheduled to begin in 2028, Ivoclar is consistently implementing its ‘Local4Local’ strategy while strengthening its presence in the Asian markets. The move will help shorten delivery routes, streamline processes and serve regional customers even more effectively and efficiently.  

“With our new site, we are creating additional capacity to support further growth and serve our customers in China even more effectively and efficiently. At the same time, we are strengthening our global production network and increasing our flexibility across the entire value chain,” says CPO Stefan Riegler.