European Union Programs
Gtannery is a proud recepient of EU funded grants
“KMM PLUS” Sp. z o.o. has received funding from the European Funds for the project titled
“Development of a technology for processing leather trimmings from finished leathers into a finishing coating for leather, and implementation of a technology for leather finishing and coating using paper-based carriers of finishing agents.”
The project includes the following modules:
R&D (Research and Development)
In the R&D module, we will conduct research to develop a technology for processing leather trimmings from finished leathers into a finishing coating for leather. As a result of this module, we will produce:
- leathers for the furniture industry,
- leathers for footwear uppers, including military field boots.
The target market for these leather products made from waste materials includes companies manufacturing leather goods—particularly for furniture production and footwear, including military footwear.
INNOVATION IMPLEMENTATION
In this module, we will implement the results of our independently conducted R&D work, involving the development of a unique method for producing a new type of leather using environmentally friendly technology that also enhances the durability of the leather during use.
As part of the project, a production line for this new type of leather will be purchased.
These leathers will be targeted at medium and large footwear manufacturers in Europe, as well as leather goods factories located especially near Poland’s borders, where purchasing from distant tanneries presents logistical challenges.
DIGITIZATION
In the digitization module, we will develop a production management system and purchase the necessary fixed assets to support the company’s digital transformation.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
This module includes the purchase of a heat and humidity recovery system equipped with temperature and humidity sensors, photovoltaic panels, a heat recovery system, and the construction of a wastewater pre-treatment facility.
INTERNATIONALIZATION
In this module, we will promote our products—secondary products owned by the company, developed through the innovation implementation module and R&D work—at trade fairs and outbound missions.
The goal of the project is to enhance the company’s competitiveness by increasing the innovativeness of its product offering and aligning it with the needs and expectations of customers.
The expected result of the project is the implementation of a new, environmentally friendly production technology.
The project will contribute to achieving the objectives of the FENG program and Priority 1: strengthening research and innovation capacities and promoting the use of advanced technologies.
EU funding for the project: PLN 2,932,593.27
Total project value: PLN 5,804,668.50
As a result of the project "Development of a technology for processing trimmings from finished leather into a finishing coating for leather and implementation of the technology for finishing and coating leather, using paper carriers of coating agents", the following outcomes were achieved:
R&D Module
As a result of the R&D activities, our company developed a process innovation consisting of a technology for processing (recycling) production waste – leather trimmings/shavings – into components used in the leather production process. The developed technology includes:
- a process for producing a finishing agent (finishing set) with microgranulate (from trimmings) and its application to upholstery (furniture) leathers and footwear leathers,
- a process for producing a filling paste with micro-granulate (from trimmings) for repairing defects in leather grain, along with its application to upper leather and military/field footwear.
Innovation Implementation Module
Within the project, a technological line for producing a new type of leather was purchased, and a new leather type dedicated to footwear and leather goods production was introduced into the company’s offer.
Digitization Module
Within the digitization module, a production management system was implemented in the company.
In addition, fixed assets necessary for the company’s digitalisation were purchased.
As a result of this module, production, warehouse and sales processes were automated.
Manual, paper-based and Excel-based processes were transferred into the system.
Enivormental sustainability Module
Within the greening module, the following were purchased:
a heat and humidity recovery system, including humidity and temperature sensors,
- photovoltaic panels with a heat recovery system,
- a wastewater pre-treatment plant.
These investments contributed to:
- improved waste management through the construction of a pre-treatment plant,
- reduced emissions to the atmosphere,
- reduced heating and electricity costs.
Internationalisation Module
Within the internationalisation module, we participated in a number of business trips, including trade fairs, conferences and foreign business missions. These trips enabled us to promote our products internationally.
Participation in trade fairs and international business missions alowed us to build brand awareness, promote our products and aquire new contracts and establish fairs and establish business relationships.