--- title: “Stars of Europe” — IFB Refractories’ expertise highlighted description: "IFB Refractories showcases its European expertise, sustainable practices, and commitment to local manufacturing in the \"Étoiles d’Europe\" initiative by the Centre-Val de Loire Region." image: https://news.ifbgroup.fr/hubfs/Capture%20d%E2%80%99%C3%A9cran%202025-09-05%20%C3%A0%2022.10.46.png --- [ << Back to Blog ](https://news.ifbgroup.fr/blog) [Awards](https://news.ifbgroup.fr/blog/tag/awards) # “Stars of Europe” — IFB Refractories’ expertise highlighted ![Image of IFB Team](https://news.ifbgroup.fr/hs-fs/hubfs/Logo%20-%20Author.png?height=60&name=Logo%20-%20Author.png) ###### IFB Team ###### Share [mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https://news.ifbgroup.fr/blog/stars-of-europe-ifb-refractories-expertise-highlighted%20&body=Check%20out%20https://news.ifbgroup.fr/blog/stars-of-europe-ifb-refractories-expertise-highlighted&media=https://20289503.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/20289503/Capture%20d%E2%80%99%C3%A9cran%202025-09-05%20%C3%A0%2022.10.46.png](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https://news.ifbgroup.fr/blog/stars-of-europe-ifb-refractories-expertise-highlighted%20&body=Check%20out%20https://news.ifbgroup.fr/blog/stars-of-europe-ifb-refractories-expertise-highlighted&media=https://20289503.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/20289503/Capture%20d%E2%80%99%C3%A9cran%202025-09-05%20%C3%A0%2022.10.46.png) ![Etoiles d'Europe](https://news.ifbgroup.fr/hs-fs/hubfs/Capture%20d%E2%80%99%C3%A9cran%202025-09-05%20%C3%A0%2022.10.46.png?height=420&name=Capture%20d%E2%80%99%C3%A9cran%202025-09-05%20%C3%A0%2022.10.46.png) We had the pleasure of opening our doors to a film crew from the **Centre-Val de Loire Region** as part of the *“Étoiles d’Europe”* initiative. Supported by **EU FEDER funding**, this program highlights innovative European projects and the people who bring them to life. For our team at IFB Refractories, the visit was more than just a filming session—it was an opportunity to share our story, our values, and the unique expertise that defines our work.   ### A Proudly French Manufacturing Site At our factory, **100% of our insulating fire bricks are produced in France**. In an industry where much production has moved abroad, we are proud to remain deeply rooted in our territory. Each brick that leaves our site reflects not only advanced technical know-how but also our commitment to local jobs and European industrial independence.   ### Natural Materials, Responsible Choices Our process is based on a simple but powerful principle: **respect for natural resources**. We use **natural clay and sawdust**, materials that combine efficiency, durability, and sustainability. Much of our clay comes directly from **our own quarries**, ensuring complete traceability and control over quality. This circular approach reduces environmental impact while strengthening the authenticity of our products.     ### Preserving Rare Industrial Know-How Today, IFB Refractories is one of the **very few remaining sites in Europe** to preserve and pass on this specific type of industrial know-how. Our team blends tradition with innovation, keeping alive techniques that have been refined over decades while continuously improving them to meet modern challenges—whether in energy efficiency, thermal performance, or sustainability. ### Spotlight on People and Values The “Étoiles d’Europe” filming also shone a light on the **men and women behind the process**. From quarry operators to kiln technicians, every member of our workforce contributes to maintaining the excellence of our products. Their expertise is the true foundation of IFB Refractories, and we are proud to see their efforts recognized on a European stage.     ![Image of IFB Team](https://news.ifbgroup.fr/hs-fs/hubfs/Logo%20-%20Author.png?height=150&name=Logo%20-%20Author.png) #### IFB Team Founded in 1919, IFB Refractories is a century-old company specialising in the manufacture of insulating fire bricks. Located in the heart of France, IFB serves the major European and overseas industrial markets. ###### Blog posts ## Related Articles. 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