7 May 2025
Brownsburg, Indiana, is set to welcome a new addition to its industrial landscape. Visscher-Caravelle, a Dutch automotive supplier, has chosen Brownsburg for its inaugural North American warehousing and distribution facility. The company will establish operations at the Northfield Drive East Commercial Building, marking a significant step in its global expansion strategy.
A Strategic Location for Global Operations
Headquartered in Genemuiden, Netherlands, Visscher-Caravelle has been a Tier-1 automotive supplier for over 70 years, producing high-quality textile mats and car interior protection components for nearly every major automobile manufacturer worldwide. The Brownsburg facility will serve as the company’s first North American consolidation center and logistics operation, reinforcing its commitment to growth and innovation.
The new facility is strategically positioned to handle customer business across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. This location was selected for its proximity to major transportation routes and its alignment with the company’s sustainability goals. The building’s LEED certification and the town’s commitment to responsible development were key factors in the decision-making process.
Introducing Visscher-Caravelle
Visscher-Caravelle is a global Tier-1 automotive supplier headquartered in Genemuiden, Netherlands, specializing in the design and production of high-quality car mats and interior protection solutions. Established in 1952 by Johannes Visscher, the company began as a small enterprise producing coconut fiber door mats. Over the decades, it has evolved into a leading manufacturer serving nearly every major automobile manufacturer worldwide .
Product Portfolio and Innovation
Visscher-Caravelle’s core business revolves around the production of textile and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) car mats. These products are designed to enhance the health, safety, comfort, and aesthetic appeal of vehicle interiors. The company also offers cargo mats and, under the Vanprotech brand, provides wooden and plastic interior protection solutions for vans . Innovation is a cornerstone of their operations, with continuous investment in employee training and development to meet the high standards of the automotive industry .
Global Presence
To support its international clientele, Visscher-Caravelle has established a robust global footprint. The company operates production facilities in Poland, Mexico, China, and Malaysia, and maintains sales offices across Europe, the United States, Asia, and Australia . This strategic distribution enables efficient service delivery and strengthens partnerships with automotive manufacturers worldwide.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability is integral to Visscher-Caravelle’s corporate philosophy. The company is committed to minimizing its environmental impact through various initiatives:
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Recyclable Products: Investing in the development of recyclable materials to reduce waste.
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Energy Efficiency: Implementing measures to minimize energy consumption in production facilities and offices.
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Waste Reduction: Achieving a 20% reduction in waste compared to 2019 levels through successful waste-saving projects .
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Renewable Energy: Utilizing solar panels, with the Netherlands facility generating 61% of its electricity from renewable sources .
These efforts are guided by certifications such as ISO 14001:2015 for environmental management and ISO 9001:2015 for quality management, underscoring the company’s dedication to sustainable practices .
Expansion into North America
In a significant move to bolster its North American operations, Visscher-Caravelle has selected Brownsburg, Indiana, for its first North American production facility. This new center will serve as a consolidation point and logistics hub, handling customer business across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The choice of Brownsburg reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence, aligning with the town’s LEED-certified developments and shared environmental values .
Leadership and Vision
Under the leadership of CEO Tiemen van Dijk, Visscher-Caravelle emphasizes meaningful connections with employees, business partners, and the communities it serves. The company’s vision is to have a positive impact in the automotive business community by delivering innovative flooring solutions that enhance the onboard experience for vehicle occupants .
In summary, Visscher-Caravelle stands as a testament to innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration in the automotive industry. With a rich history, diverse product offerings, and a forward-looking approach, the company continues to drive excellence in automotive interior solutions.
Economic Impact on Brownsburg
The establishment of Visscher-Caravelle’s North American operations in Brownsburg is expected to have a positive economic impact on the local community. While specific job creation numbers have not been disclosed, the presence of a global automotive supplier is anticipated to bring new employment opportunities and contribute to the town’s economic growth.
The facility is scheduled to formally open this summer, marking a significant milestone in Visscher-Caravelle’s expansion and Brownsburg’s ongoing development as a hub for global business operations.
Brownsburg appears to be attracting the attention of international businesses that potentially align with it’s values and contribute to the community’s prosperity. The arrival of Visscher-Caravelle signifies not only economic growth but also a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation.