Freudenberg Group, a global enterprise headquartered in Germany, has announced the expansion of its training center in Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu. The foundation stone for the new phase of development, which includes an auditorium and extended training infrastructure, was laid by Esther Maria Loidl, Chief Human Resources Officer and member of Freudenberg’s global management board. She was joined by G Sivasailam, Director and CEO of Freudenberg Regional Corporate Center India, and Dr Chitrakala Mohan, Principal of the Freudenberg Training Centre.
Freudenberg has invested over ₹40 crore in the region over the last 16 years, primarily to support education and skill development among local communities. This phase of expansion is focused on encouraging greater participation from young women and increasing access to vocational and digital training. Plans include transforming the current auditorium into a computer laboratory and constructing a new facility expected to be operational by mid-2026.
Founded in 2008 in response to the 2004 tsunami, the Freudenberg Training Centre offers courses in trades such as welding, fitting, motor mechanics, electrical work, and machining. Spread across 28 acres, the institute employs 18 staff and has trained more than 1,400 students to date. Many graduates have secured positions at Freudenberg companies or with leading firms such as Hyundai, TVS, and the Simpson Group. Some alumni have also gone on to start their own businesses in the area.
Esther Maria Loidl remarked that the continued development of the center underscores Freudenberg’s long-term approach to social responsibility in India. “The decision to invest in vocational training back in 2008 has had a meaningful impact on the community, and we are committed to building on that foundation,” she said.
G Sivasailam highlighted the alignment of the training center’s growth with the company’s values, emphasizing the dedication of the faculty and leadership team. “The initiative reflects our principles of long-term engagement and responsible action,” he noted.
Principal Dr Chitrakala Mohan expressed her appreciation for the ongoing support from Freudenberg. “The consistent backing we receive has allowed us to deliver quality training and expand the reach of our programs,” she said. “The new development will further strengthen our ability to contribute to the region’s socio-economic growth.”
Freudenberg is a global technology company with a legacy of over 175 years, focused on delivering practical solutions across a wide range of industries. In collaboration with customers, partners, and research institutions, the Group develops technologies and products for approximately 40 markets.
Its offerings include seals, vibration control systems, battery and fuel cell components, technical textiles, filters, cleaning products, specialty chemicals, and medical devices. Core values such as innovation, customer focus, diversity, and teamwork guide its operations. As of 2024, Freudenberg employed more than 52,000 people across nearly 60 countries, generating close to €12 billion in revenue.
Freudenberg has maintained business relationships in India for over nine decades. The Group operates 11 manufacturing facilities across the country and employs more than 3,000 people at over 20 locations, serving a broad spectrum of industries.
