With two major sites in Aarschot and Heist-op-den-Berg, Duracell demonstrates how a strong industrial presence, local partnerships, and a forward-looking mindset come together to power Europe and Africa.
Duracell’s batteries are known for their quality, long-standing energy, and innovative strength. Since 1967, Duracell has been manufacturing high-quality alkaline batteries in Aarschot, and since 1999, assembling and packaging them in Heist-op-den-Berg. Together, these two sites employ more than 500 people and serve as the company’s production, packaging and logistics hub for two continents.
Belgium was a strategic choice, thanks to the country’s skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and the central location in Europe. Today, Duracell continues to invest in its Belgian operations to embrace automation and digitalization.
Powering a Greener Future
In early 2024, Duracell launched its Europe & Africa-wide strategy: Powering a Greener Future, with its European sites playing a central role.
- In 2023, Heist became one of the largest solar energy producers in the region through it’s solar roof of more than 8,000 solar panels, generating the equivalent of the annual electricity needs of 1,000 households.
- Another 1,000 solar panels will be placed on the roof of the Aarschot production facility this year.
- In 2024, the company introduced a 100% electric shuttle truck service between both sites, cutting 60 tons of CO₂ emissions annually and reducing noise for nearby communities. The truck is powered by the solar panels installed on-site.
Smarter Use of Water Resources
Water management is another area of ongoing innovation. Duracell has reduced its water consumption by 20% since 2014 and treats all process water via an on-site wastewater facility.
Looking ahead, the company is partnering with local authorities on rainwater collection and soil softening projects, with the goal of ending the use of groundwater by 2026.
Circular Thinking in Action
Duracell is actively promoting battery recycling through branded consumer campaigns, with a goal to collect 100 million used batteries by 2030.
Recovered batteries are ground into "black mass," from which valuable raw materials like zinc and steel are extracted and re-used in construction, galvanization, and fertilizers: advancing circularity in the battery industry. A standout example is Ukraine, where more than 32 million batteries have already been collected through local campaigns.
A Workplace for All
Duracell also stands out for its commitment to inclusive employment. For over 40 years, it has partnered with Entiris, a sheltered workshop that supports people with disabilities and professional challenges.
Today, 150 Entiris colleagues work at the Heist site, assembling complex in-store displays and contributing directly to Duracell’s operations, powerful proof that inclusive employment goes successfully hand-in-hand with operational excellence.
Looking Ahead
"We produce and distribute our batteries from the 'heart of Europe' to all of Europe, and beyond. Both sites in Belgium have been awarded as ‘Factory of the Future’ which is testament to our efforts, following technology every step of the way. As a next chapter, we’re focusing on digitization and automation, and the related training of our people."
From powering daily lives to advancing industrial best practices, Duracell’s Belgian story is one of longevity, innovation, sustainability, and local commitment. With its dual focus on performance and responsibility, Duracell is proud to call Belgium home, and equally proud to help power the future of Europe from its heart.
About the company in this story...
Established in 1967
Locations in Aarschot and Heist-op-den-Berg
500+
Employees in Belgium, and
5 million batteries leave the facilities per day – free of emissions
Duracell in Belgium: Powering Europe from Aarschot and Heist-op-den-Berg