Banca dati dei progetti dei PSR
Using Nanotechnology in the Production of Pottery
Summary
An innovative project where nanotechnology is used in the production of high quality pottery. This has resulted in an increase in productivity and the promotion of the products followed up through online marketing.
Background
The company operates in the field of pottery since 2006 when it received funding for setting-up under the Leader+ programme. At the same time, the company is a member of the Potters Network of the Municipality of Heraklion, also funded and established under Leader+ with the aim to implement a common approach in the promotion of local pottery products. Since its establishment the company has obtained a large number of customers and has established itself in the local market for its professionalism and quality. This growing demand for its products has given rise to the need to expand.
Objective
The objective of the project is to expand the business of pottery production through the use of modern technology in order to be more efficient by reducing costs and respond to the needs of an increasing client base.
Main activities
The investment consists of innovative equipment covering the manufacturing and baking stages and the stage of immersion of pottery in a submersible platform for water proofing. Nanotechnology is used in this last stage giving rise to high quality water proof pottery. The process works as follows: after baking, the pottery is placed on a platform which is then submerged completely into a mixture of water and water-proofing substances for about 8 hours and then left to dry for another 24 hours.
Results & Benefits
The expansion of the business will bring financial benefits as well as improvements in the production process and consequently in the reputation and image of the enterprise. The new equipment is innovative for the production process as it incorporates nanotechnology which increases exponentially the productive capacity, simplifies production processes and achieves time savings in the construction of pottery, hence contributing to enhanced productivity.
Lessons learnt
Innovative investments need to be followed by innovative promotion. The creation of a webpage and electronic shopping has contributed greatly to the promotion of the pottery produced with nanotechnology equipment. The key message for successful marketing is “high quality local products incorporating high edge technology and using local inputs” (sand or clay from the local area and local suppliers).
Project location and other information
Thrapsano, Municipality of Minoas, Heraklion.
Region
Kriti
RDP Territory
Greece
Total project cost (€)
116 361
EAFRD contribution (€)
46 545
National contribution (€)
11 636
Private contribution (€)
58 181
Project website
Contact name
Costantinos Houlakis
Telephone
+30 28910 41296
Languages for contact
English, Greek
At a glance
Country
Greece
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
25/7/2011
End Date:
30/6/2013
Theme / Measure:
Rural Quality of Life & Economic Diversification
Rural economic diversification
312. Support for business creation and development
Keywords:
Information technology, Innovation, Machinery, Entrepreneurship
Last update
12/03/2014