MICHIGAN — Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced that JR Automation, a Hitachi Company, based in Japan will build its new global headquarters in Zeeland. The $72.8 million investment will create 150 jobs. The announcement comes as the governor continues her second investment trip in Japan to visit companies with an existing or prospective interest in Michigan.
“JR Automation’s new global headquarters is a powerful example of what’s possible when we invest in innovation and build strong partnerships between Michigan and global leaders like Hitachi,” said Governor Whitmer. “This project will retain and create good-paying jobs, strengthen our advanced manufacturing sector, and reinforce Michigan’s position as a hub for cutting-edge technology. I will continue going anywhere and working with anyone to bring jobs and investments back home to Michigan.”
The Zeeland facility will combine three existing JR Automation facilities into one to boost efficiency and increase cohesiveness across employees both of JR Automation and Hitachi, the latter of whom would welcome co-location of some of their global employees at this new location. The new facility would host office space and manufacturing and provide more room for JR Automation to grow. Michigan won this project over South Carolina, where JR Automation has an existing facility with space to grow.
“JR Automation has become a truly global company, and we need a space that meets our needs for hosting customers, showcasing technology, and attracting the best talent,” said Dave DeGraaf, CEO of JR Automation and General Manager of Hitachi Automation Division. “Our new headquarters places us at the heart of a thriving automation and advanced manufacturing cluster that deepens our industry connections and competitive advantages.”
JR Automation employs 941 people across all its Michigan sites and has more than 20 manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia. Meanwhile, Hitachi, Ltd., is a more than $100 billion enterprise with over 600 companies. As such, the decision to locate a global headquarters in Michigan represents a significant opportunity not only for the companies but the state and region.
“The City of Zeeland is excited to be the new home of JR Automation’s global headquarters,” said Zeeland Mayor Kevin Klynstra. “West Michigan has a great potential to serve as a catalyst for smart manufacturing, and it starts with significant investments like this one. We stand ready to help the business and community come together in unison over a shared vision of prosperity.”
