Glassware producer Arc International has begun a multimillion dollar renovation and modernisation of the Opytny Steklony Zavod (OSZ) glassware factory in Vladimir, Russia.

After a process of modernisation, the factory, which is 300 kilometres from Moscow, is expected to have new glass production lines and will be able to produce not only Arc International Group’s glassware, but that of Luminarc and Arcoroc. The plant currently employs 1200 people and has two sodium-calcium glass ovens.

With its expansion into Russia, the company has also appointed a new Chief Executive: Francois Bonneville, for Russia and Eastern Europe.

According to the company, Arc International already has a 32% share of the glassware market in Russia and Eastern Europe. It estimates the sector’s annual growth will be approximately 15%.