JR Automation to open $15.5 million technology center in South Carolina
Greenville, SC — JR Automation will celebrate the grand opening of its new Automation Technology Center in Greenville, South Carolina, on Nov. 4, expanding its manufacturing capabilities with a $15.5 million investment.
The new facility includes 186,755 square feet of automation build space and 28,996 square feet of office and break room space, totaling more than 215,000 square feet. The expansion will support the company’s global operations and its efforts to help manufacturers develop more intelligent and connected production systems.
The company, a Hitachi Group subsidiary and global provider of intelligent automation, will mark the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, executive remarks and tours of the facility. Industry leaders, community partners and other guests are expected to attend.
“The investment in Greenville represents more than additional capacity. It strengthens our ability to support customers across their entire manufacturing operation,” said Yusuke Kazama, CEO of JR Automation.
Kazama said the company plans to combine its expertise in automation, engineering and manufacturing with digital technology, data and artificial intelligence to help customers improve production systems and operations.
Approximately 100 employees currently work at the new center, which has room for additional growth as the business expands.
The facility brings together engineering, integration, project execution and customer collaboration to support automation projects throughout the manufacturing lifecycle.
“Our new Automation Technology Center was designed around how our people work,” said Mitch Neal, general manager of JR Automation’s Greenville Division. “It gives our teams a better environment to collaborate, build and solve problems together, with the space to support our customers today and evolve with their needs over time.”
The expansion also reflects JR Automation’s broader strategy to expand beyond traditional automation integration and become a more comprehensive manufacturing operations partner.
The company is increasingly focused on connecting machinery, data, digital systems and human expertise to create more adaptable manufacturing operations. That strategy includes developing Physical AI, which combines artificial intelligence with physical systems and industrial automation.
As part of Hitachi Group, JR Automation is working toward becoming a leader in Physical AI, Kazama said. The company also plans to use Hitachi’s HMAX Industry technology to help customers improve operations throughout the manufacturing lifecycle.
Founded in 1980, JR Automation was acquired by Hitachi Ltd. in 2019. The company employs more than 2,000 people across more than 20 facilities worldwide and serves industries including aerospace and defense, automotive, consumer goods, energy, life sciences, warehousing, semiconductors, food and beverage, and heavy equipment.