In June, Zaporizhzhia Refractories of Metinvest Group celebrates the 93rd anniversary of its founding. The company is marking this date without large-scale celebrations, and with due regard for the realities of wartime.
Today, the foremost achievement is the daily work of the team, which demonstrates that the stable operation of production is an important contribution to the country’s resilience, the support of the economy, and Ukraine’s future victory.
Over nearly a century of its history, Zaporizhzhia Refractories has undergone various stages of development. The past two decades, in particular, have been a period of large-scale modernisation, improved product quality, and strengthened market positions for the enterprise. This year, Metinvest Group celebrates its 20th anniversary, and over this period, together with Zaporizhzhia Refractories, it has succeeded in establishing a modern, technologically advanced production facility that meets the highest standards of the mining and steelmaking industry.
Through sustained investment, the adoption of modern technologies, and the development of production capabilities, the company has strengthened its status as a leading Ukrainian manufacturer of refractory products and a reliable partner to the country’s metallurgical enterprises.
Working and Developing Despite the War
The current period has become one of the most challenging trials in the company’s history. Despite the full-scale war, energy constraints, instability in raw material supplies, and labour shortages, Zaporizhzhia Refractories maintains its production rhythm, demonstrating its ability to adapt swiftly to new conditions and move forward with confidence.
"Today, we are celebrating the enterprises’s 93rd anniversary at a particularly significant time. Despite all the challenges, we have preserved what matters most – our team, our professionalism, and our responsibility for our shared cause. During times of the greatest trials, what proves decisive is not only resources or technology, but the unity of people. We have learned to operate in conditions of uncertainty, to respond swiftly to challenges, to support one another, and to maintain a shared course. It is this cohesion that enables us to withstand challenges, maintain production, and continue moving forward,” said Andrii ZHUK, General Director of Zaporizhzhia Refractories
New Products and Production Independence
Strong operational results confirm the company’s resilience. In 2025, Metinvest Group's Zaporizhzhia Refractories manufactured over 95,000 tonnes of refractory products, reinforcing its status as a key local manufacturer of refractories and a reliable partner for the Ukrainian mining and steelmaking industry.
At the same time, the company is consistently expanding its product range and replacing external suppliers. During 2025, the plant introduced 15 new product items for the lining of steel ladles, hot stoves, and the repair of coke oven batteries. More than 390 tonnes of new products were shipped to customers, marking a further step towards strengthening the production independence of Ukrainian industry.
The Enterprise’s Greatest Strength Is Its People
Today, nearly 1,500 employees work at Zaporizhzhia Refractories. It is they who ensure the stable operation of production, preserve the enterprise’s traditions, and build upon its achievements. On the occasion of the company’s anniversary, the best employees were recognised with corporate awards and gifts.
“What attracts me to the energy sector is that there is no monotony here. Every day, we face new challenges, continually learn, and develop alongside the industry. Today, the company’s top priority is to preserve its professional team, as people are our greatest asset. I wish Zaporizhzhia Refractories stability, continued development, and confident progress,” said Andrii MELNYCHENKO.
Chemical engineer Tetiana Mordasova was also awarded an honorary certificate for her conscientious work.
“Quality control of products and raw materials is a highly responsible task on which the stability of production processes depends. For me, this work feels like home. And therefore it is a great honour to receive such a distinction. I am sincerely grateful for the high appraisal of my work and my contribution to the company’s operations,” said Tetiana MORDASOVA.
A Pillar and a Source of Pride for the Enterprise
A special place in the plant’s history is held by its retired employees. It is they who, over decades, built up the production base, passed on professional expertise, and shaped a culture of responsibility and leadership that remains the foundation of Zaporizhzhia Refracroties development to this day. This year, two retirees of Zaporizhzhia Refractories – Olha Skrypnyk and Yevhenii Nikolskyi – were honoured with the honorary title “Coryphaeus of Metinvest”.
Particular recognition is due to the company’s employees who have taken up the defence of Ukraine. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, 306 employees have joined the Defence Forces, of whom 196 are currently serving.
Regrettably, Zaporizhzhia Refractories has lost 26 of its colleagues. Their names and their heroism will forever remain an integral part of the enterprise’s history. At the same time, 20 veterans returned to their home team after demobilisation, continuing to work for the benefit of the company and the country.
Working Today for the Sake of the Future
Remaining an important part of the regional and national economy, Zaporizhzhia Refractories continues to invest in production, occupational safety, and the improvement of working conditions for its personnel. These are investments not only in production capacity, but also in the future of the enterprise and its people.
The 93-year history of Zaporizhzhia Refractories is a story of hard work, professionalism, resilience, and dedication to its work. And today, this history continues thanks to the people who work every day for the development of the company, the well-being of their home city, and the future of Ukraine.
