JR Automation is planning to invest $72.8 million on a new global headquarters in Zeeland.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Hitachi Group announced the development Sept. 3. The Sentinel previously reported a public hearing for a site plan review and special land use application scheduled for Sept. 4 before the Zeeland Planning Commission for 800 E. Riley Ave.
The project, according to the hearing notice, would include a 40,000-square-foot office building and 210,000-square-foot manufacturing building with an office area and site improvements, constructed on about 45.5 acres.
According to a release from Lakeshore Advantage, the new state-of-the-art building would house 350 employees and is expected to generate millions in private investment and 150 new jobs.
JR Automation CEO and General Manager of Hitachi’s Automation Division Dave DeGraaf said the new headquarters shows the company’s commitment to innovation, their employees and the local community.
“We’re proud to deepen our roots in Michigan while continuing to grow globally,” DeGraaf said. “This investment will help us better serve our customers and attract top talent to the lakeshore region.”
The development would combine three existing JR Automation locations, freeing up much-needed industrial real estate in Holland, officials said.
As part of the announcement, Lakeshore Advantage President Jennifer Owens joined Whitmer in Tokyo, Japan, to discuss initiatives supporting innovation and economic growth in Michigan. Whitmer said the announcement is a “powerful example” of what’s possible when the state invests in innovation.
JR Automation, a global provider of intelligent automated manufacturing technology solutions, was established in 1980. The company currently has over 20 locations across the globe, including six near Holland. The business has 941 employees in Michigan.
Zeeland Mayor Kevin Klynstra voiced his support for the project in the announcement.
“West Michigan has great potential to serve as a catalyst for smart manufacturing, and it starts with significant investments like this one,” Klynstra said. “We stand ready to help the business and community come together in unison over a shared vision of prosperity.”
For more information, visit jrautomation.com.
— Contact reporter Austin Metz at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: JR Automation announces new global headquarters planned for Zeeland
Reporting by Austin Metz, Holland Sentinel / The Holland Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
