JR Automation Unveils Plans for $72.8M Global Headquarters

JR Automation’s New $72.8M HQ Set to Boost Industrial Automation Innovation

This strategic move strengthens Michigan’s position in the global automation landscape while demonstrating significant commitment to advanced manufacturing and smart technology.

Strategic Investment and Global Collaboration

JR Automation announced its new global headquarters in Zeeland, Michigan. Following high-level talks in Tokyo between Hitachi executives and Michigan’s Governor, this $72.8 million project demonstrates strong global partnership. Moreover, it reinforces Michigan’s role in advanced manufacturing, driving significant technological progress through this collaboration.

Project Timeline and Honoring a Legacy

Construction begins on September 17, 2025, with the facility expected to be operational by late 2026. This development honors founder Ken Assink’s pioneering vision, whose work established West Michigan as an automation hub. Hitachi’s investment ensures this legacy continues locally, keeping the headquarters where the company started.

Enhancing Capabilities with Advanced Technologies

Charlie Takeuchi of Hitachi America highlighted the long-term strategy focused on Integrated Industry Automation and Lumada. The facility will act as a One Hitachi hub, converging digital twin, edge computing, and AI technologies. These integrated systems create intelligent manufacturing ecosystems that deliver lasting customer and shareholder value.

Facility Design and Employee Integration

The 286,000-square-foot campus features modern workspaces including 76,000 sq ft of offices and 210,000 sq ft for assembly. Approximately 350 employees will consolidate here in a design that prioritizes employee experience and collaboration. Amenities include a fitness center and sustainable workspaces, while outdoor integration promotes well-being and talent retention.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Governor Gretchen Whitmer praised the public-private partnership, stating it showcases Michigan’s commitment to innovation. The project will retain and create high-quality jobs while strengthening the state’s advanced manufacturing sector. Consequently, Michigan solidifies its status as a technology leader through such investments.

Sustainability and Environmental Goals

The headquarters supports JR Automation’s 2030 sustainability targets, including carbon neutrality and zero landfill waste. The campus will utilize on-site renewable energy while native prairie landscaping promotes biodiversity. These comprehensive practices demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

Global Growth and Expansion Context

JR Automation continues expanding its international presence through recent acquisitions including MA micro automation in Europe. Additionally, the company is growing its Singapore operations. This global growth necessitates a modern, consolidated headquarters to support their expanding worldwide operations.

JR Automation’s Evolution and Industry Impact

Founded in 1980, JR Automation began as a family business serving the automotive industry. The company grew through private equity investment before Hitachi’s 2019 acquisition. Today, it employs over 2,000 people across 21 global locations, with expertise spanning aerospace, life sciences, warehousing, and consumer goods.

Industry Perspective and Future Outlook

The global industrial automation market is expanding rapidly, with MarketsandMarkets projecting it will reach $306.2 billion by 2027. This growth is driven by Industry 4.0 adoption as factories increasingly implement PLC, DCS, and smart control systems. JR Automation’s investment positions them at this technological forefront.

From PLCDCSHUB’s perspective, this headquarters represents more than physical expansion—it signifies the maturation of industrial automation. The integration of AI and digital twin technologies enables predictive maintenance and production line optimization. Therefore, companies seeking to upgrade their systems should consider these advanced solutions.

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Practical Application Scenarios

✅ Automated Assembly Lines: The new facility will showcase high-speed robotic assembly systems integrating vision inspection and IoT connectivity.

⚙️ Smart Warehousing Solutions: JR Automation will demonstrate automated storage and retrieval systems utilizing advanced PLC controls for inventory management.

🔧 Customized Automation Cells: The headquarters will feature modular work cells that can be reconfigured for different manufacturing applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What technologies will JR Automation focus on at the new headquarters?
The facility will emphasize digital twin simulation, edge computing platforms, and AI-driven control systems to create flexible manufacturing environments.

How does this investment impact the industrial automation industry?
This establishes a benchmark for integrated automation facilities, accelerating adoption of smart manufacturing principles across multiple sectors.

What sustainability features are incorporated into the design?
The campus utilizes renewable energy, native landscaping, and waste reduction systems supporting JR Automation’s 2030 environmental targets.