COMTES FHT is a major name in its sector. The company is involved in research and development in the areas of metallic materials, introduction of new technologies and forming and heat treatment of metals. The company was established 20 years ago, when several researchers decided to leave their jobs and launch their own project. From a handful of enthusiasts a few years ago, that project has grown into a company with 100 employees and is now a leader in its field. And as we know, innovation and customers never sleep, so the company’s management decided to build an associated Science and Technology Park in Dobřany near Plzeň, which is now open to all enthusiasts and start-ups.

How did the idea come about? In what way is VTP COMTES unique? We spoke about these matters and more with the chairman of the board of directors, Libor Kraus.

1. Tell us the whole story. Why did such a large and well-established firm decide to build a Science and Technology Park (STP)?

We have been on the market for 20 years. We’re developing new technologies and materials every day. We have to work hard to keep up with the competition, and the market and customers are changing. We have to adapt and that is one of the reasons that we built an STP where our clients can be start-ups and beginning entrepreneurs. These are also our potential customers, whom we care about.

2. In what way are you unique? What can you offer to start-ups and projects operating in your facility?

We have unique know-how in the field of research and development of metallic materials and technologies for processing them. We look forward to being able to offer our mechanical and machining workshops, support in the form of laboratory analyses and testing, unique instruments including electron microscopes and 3D printers to start-ups, which will be able to use them in connection with de minimis support. In our complex, you will also find a charging station, kindergarten and a multipurpose facility for 150 people. The driving distance to Plzeň is only a matter of minutes. High-quality facilities for business, including equipped offices, is a matter of course. For companies established in the STP, we also offer additional services such as bookkeeping, business and project consulting and wholesale energy prices.

3. Do you have contacts with foreign markets?

Foreign markets are important for us. We employ several foreign researchers and our employees go abroad for training and professional conferences. We cooperate with a number of companies and research organisations in Europe, and we have contacts in Asia and America. On the occasion of the company’s 20^th anniversary this year, we are organising the sixth edition of the COMAT2020 science conference, which will be attended by roughly 200 researchers from around the world.

Thank you very much for the interview and best of luck to you.