ABB commits $280m to new robotics campus in Västerås, Sweden

In a major move to strengthen its position in European automation, ABB has announced a $280 million investment to build a new Robotics European Campus in Västerås, Sweden. Slated to open in late 2026, the state-of-the-art facility will replace existing robotics operations at the site and focus on AI-enabled collaborative and industrial robots. This initiative aligns with ABB’s “local for local” production strategy, aimed at supplying European customers with locally manufactured products.

“Local for Local” Strategy Powers ABB’s European Robotics Expansion

“The investment in our new Campus is driven by customer demand and projected market growth,” said Björn Rosengren, ABB CEO. “Following important investments in China and the U.S, the new facility in Sweden will strengthen our capabilities in serving our customers in Europe with locally manufactured products in a growing market. Already today, around 95 percent of the robots ABB sells in the region are manufactured here. This is a strong commitment not only to our ‘local for local’ strategy, but to all our robotics customers across Europe.”

ABB invests $280m in new robotics campus in Sweden to boost European automation. Photo courtesy of ABB.

ABB’s Global Leadership in Robotics and Automation

ABB’s new Robotics Campus in Västerås is set to enhance its global leadership in robotics and automation. The campus will increase ABB’s production capacity by 50% and cater to a European market that’s projected to grow at a seven percent CAGR through 2027. Once completed, ABB will have invested a total of $450 million in three robotics facilities since 2018.

Addressing Market Demands: From Automotive to Pharmaceuticals

“This is a great time to invest in robotics and automation. This new Campus is a significant part of our global growth story and key in supporting our European customers as they accelerate investment in robotics and AI due to the reshoring of industry, the move to more sustainable supply chains and long-term labor shortages,” said Sami Atiya, President of ABB’s Robotics & Discrete Automation Business Area.

Future of Automation: Close Collaboration and Innovation

The 65,000 m2 campus will feature various amenities including offices, a research and development center, an experience center, and a training center. It aims to foster close collaboration with customers and partners, and facilitate on-site testing and experimentation with cutting-edge automation technologies.

Strengthening Cross-Functional Synergies in Robotics

Construction for the new campus is scheduled to begin in 2024 and will consolidate ABB’s nine existing buildings in Sweden. This move aims to foster cross-functional synergies and improve efficiency by centralizing operations.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives

ABB’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the campus construction plans. In line with ABB’s 2030 Sustainability Targets, the facility will aim for carbon neutrality and prioritize eco-friendly building materials and construction processes, including the use of solar panels.