Camfil Revitalizes Former Smith & Nephew Facility in Tuttlingen as New European HQ

The previously vacant Smith & Nephew industrial facility in Tuttlingen has been given a new lease on life as Camfil APC, part of the global Camfil group, has taken over and established it as their European headquarters for industrial air cleaning. The plant had been empty for one and a half years following the closure of Smith & Nephew's orthopedic division, which led to the loss of 210 jobs.

Camfil's relocation process began in mid-June 2026 and concluded on July 3, involving the transfer of about 70 office jobs, including critical IT infrastructure, from other locations to Tuttlingen. According to Gordon Löwe, Camfil's personnel manager, the move was carefully managed with employees working remotely during the transition. Extensive renovations were necessary, including removing outdated machinery, installing soundproofing and new floors, and constructing new storage facilities in close cooperation with the landlord.

Currently, Camfil employs approximately 100 people at the Tuttlingen site and sees opportunities for growth driven by sustainable products and concepts. Although the order situation remains solid, there are some concerns about fluctuations in key sectors such as machinery and automotive. Meanwhile, KLS Martin Group acquired the former Camfil building elsewhere, expanding its operational space by around 14,400 square meters with plans for further development to support company growth.

This strategic move not only reactivates a key industrial site that had been inactive but also strengthens Camfil’s European presence, ensuring modern and high-quality work environments for its staff. The transition marks a positive development in the regional economy by offsetting earlier job losses and supporting future industrial growth in Tuttlingen.