Photo Courtesy of 3M Benelux in Delft, the Netherlands
Photo Courtesy of 3M Benelux in Delft, the Netherlands
Photo Courtesy of 3M Benelux in Delft, the Netherlands
Photo Courtesy of 3M Benelux in Delft, the Netherlands
Photo Courtesy of 3M Benelux in Delft, the Netherlands

Using Their Own Inventions 3M Builds New Headquarters Building in the Netherlands

Nov. 6, 2014
The building has been built making use of tens of 3M’s own inventions and innovations, such as the lighting technology, air and water filers, decorative films as well as 3M’s Very High Bonding (VHB) gluing technology used to glue together all glass panels in the building. 

When 3M  (IW 500/41) was deciding where to locate its new European headquarters the opportunity to collaborate with the Delft University of Technology was the determining factor in deciding to built in the Netherlands. 

"This move required a long period of preparations," said Patrick Rogiers, managing director 3M Benelux. "We opted for the Science Park to allow us to work closely with the Technical University Delft and other technology companies in the vicinity."

Science Park Technopolis Delft is currently being developed as one of the top locations for research and development in Europe. The site is intended for knowledge-intensive companies active in sectors with links to TU Delft's expertise in scientific research. 

On November 5, the new 3M headquarters at Technopolis Science Park in Delft officially opened. 

The building has been built making use of tens of 3M’s own inventions and innovations, such as the lighting technology, air and water filers, decorative films as well as 3M’s Very High Bonding (VHB) gluing technology used to glue together all glass panels in the building. 

The heart of the new headquarters, according to the company, is the Innovation Center. Two floors have been equipped for this showroom to welcome some 3,000 visitors per year. Besides customers, visitors also include third party professionals including representatives from the chemical sector and for example, students from universities and schools who get the chance to be introduced to 3M technologies.

"This is an inspiring place to brainstorm with customers and show them ideas", says Rogiers. "Similar centers where we collaborate like this with our customers are based in London and Madrid, as well as in Minneapolis-St. Paul. 

Besides the Innovation Center, the building in Delft is also home to a laboratory and an auditorium. 

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