Balluff, a supplier of sensors, identification systems and networking solutions for automation applications, has announced plans to build a new smart factory that will reportedly create around 700 jobs in production, management and administration in Aguascalientes, Mexico.
Its existing large-scale production sites in China and Hungary will also reportedly be expanded.
The company plans to invest around €50m (£43.8m) in the new site in Aguascalientes, which is located about 500km north of Mexico City and is set to open at the end of 2023.
What’s more, Balluff also plans to build a new distribution centre close to the headquarters in Neuhausen, Switzerland by 2026.
The sensor and automation firm has operated a sales location in Mexico for 21 years, with the new smart factory expected to facilitate planned growth, as well as reduce global supply chain disruptions, shorten delivery times for the Americas trading area and boost Balluff’s operational sustainability.
“As a family business that operates sustainably, we are very pleased that we can improve our carbon footprint this way,” said Katrin Stegmaier-Hermle, managing director at Balluff.
“More than half of the sensors, accessories, network systems and RFID solutions produced at the new 15,000m² location will directly supply the North and South American market,” said Frank Nonnenmann, managing director and head of supply chain at Balluff.
“The remaining part is intended for the international market.”
Together with the development centre in Neuhausen and the numerous sales locations worldwide, the company hopes the new smart factory will support the establishment of a balanced production, logistics and development network, in which each location has its specific role.
Balluff (Stand r612) will be at the co-located Robotics and Automation and IntraLogisteX on 28-29 March 2023 at NEC Birmingham.
For more information, visit www.roboticsandautomation.co.uk and www.intralogistex.co.uk.
