Dormagen: From Chemical Town to Green Tech and Aerospace Hub
DORMAGEN, 29 January 2026 – The North Rhine-Westphalian town of Dormagen, long associated with its major chemical industry, is rapidly transforming into a focal point for advanced manufacturing and sustainable technology. Recent developments, including the construction of a pioneering battery recycling facility and strategic corporate investments, are reshaping its economic landscape.
Europe’s First End-to-End Battery Recycling Plant
Construction is now underway in Dormagen for what is billed as Europe’s first industrial-scale, end-to-end battery recycling facility. The plant, developed by Nootro Labs, is uniquely capable of processing both Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery chemistries. This development positions Dormagen at the forefront of the continent’s circular economy for electric vehicle and energy storage batteries, addressing a critical supply chain challenge.
Strategic Aerospace Investment
In a significant boost to the local advanced logistics sector, aerospace giant Boeing established a major new parts warehouse in Dormagen. The facility, which opened on 14 May 2025, primarily supports Boeing’s commercial airline customers across Europe, leveraging Dormagen’s central location and robust transport infrastructure.
Key Facts: Dormagen’s Industrial Profile
| Sector / Project | Key Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery Recycling | First in Europe to process NMC & LFP chemistries at industrial scale (Nootro Labs). |
| Aerospace Logistics | Boeing’s European parts warehouse operational since May 2025. |
| Chemical Industry Anchor | Part of the broader Cologne-Leverkusen chemical park region, home to Bayer HQ. |
| Corporate Activity | Nearby Leverkusen-based Henkel recently acquired Swiss adhesive specialist ATP. |
Regional Corporate Ecosystem
Dormagen benefits from its proximity to global corporate headquarters. Neighbouring Leverkusen is home to Bayer AG, a life science and agriculture innovator, while Düsseldorf-based Henkel recently expanded its industrial adhesives portfolio with the acquisition of Swiss firm ATP Adhesive Systems. This dense corporate network provides a strong base for supply chain and research collaborations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Dormagen located?
Dormagen is a town in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is situated on the left bank of the River Rhine, approximately 15 kilometres south of Düsseldorf and 25 kilometres north of Cologne.
What is the significance of the new battery recycling plant?
The facility is critical for Europe’s strategic autonomy in the electric vehicle era. By being able to recycle both dominant battery types (NMC and LFP) at an industrial scale, it closes the material loop, reduces dependency on raw material imports, and supports the EU’s Green Deal objectives.
Is the chemical industry still important to Dormagen?
Yes. While new sectors are growing, Dormagen remains an integral part of one of Europe’s largest chemical industry clusters centred in Cologne, Leverkusen, and Dormagen itself. The town’s infrastructure and skilled workforce are key assets attracting new industries like aerospace logistics and green tech.