Guardian Glass will begin a major capital project to repair its float glass furnace and expand glass production at its Porto Real, Brazil, plant.

“This investment reinforces our commitment to create value for our customers and the communities we serve,” says Rick Zoulek, vice president of Americas at Guardian Glass. “The project will expand Guardian’s ability to service customers in Brazil and neighboring countries with high quality glass.”

The Porto Real plant started operations in 1998 and in 2010 added an advanced magnetron sputter coater, according to a release from the company. The plant services window customers and commercial fabricators throughout Brazil.

“Guardian first came to Brazil in 1994 when it opened a warehouse in Guarulhos, and we have continued to grow ever since,” says Ricardo Knecht, general manager of Guardian Glass South America. “This project demonstrates our confidence in Brazil, and it is aligned with our long-term growth strategy. Increasing production capacity will give Guardian Glass a strong competitive advantage in the region.”