Schneider Electric announces $140m investment in U.S. manufacturing expansion and job creation

Schneider Electric, a global leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has unveiled plans to significantly bolster its manufacturing operations in the United States with a substantial $140 million investment. This strategic move is aimed at creating approximately 750 new manufacturing positions across the country in 2024, marking a significant commitment to American industry and innovation.

The investment initiative will be spearheaded with an $85 million allocation to repurpose and outfit a 500,000 square foot facility in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, alongside upgrades to the existing manufacturing operations in Smyrna, Tennessee. These sites are set to produce custom electrical switchgear and medium voltage power distribution products. This expansion is directly in response to the growing demand for critical infrastructure, industry support, and data center solutions across the U.S., addressing the urgent need for electrical infrastructure capable of supporting advanced computing and technological advancement.

Scheduled to commence manufacturing and shipping by mid-2024, with full operational capacity expected in 2025, the new Mt. Juliet plant, together with the Smyrna facility, will integrate cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and software. These advancements aim to enhance operational efficiency, energy savings, and carbon footprint reduction, reflecting Schneider Electric’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

In terms of employment, Schneider Electric plans to hire an additional 455 manufacturing workers across both Tennessee locations, offering roles ranging from manufacturing technicians and engineers to test technicians and quality leads. This recruitment drive underscores the company’s dedication to contributing positively to the local economy and job market.

Aamir Paul, President of North America Operations at Schneider Electric, emphasized the critical nature of these investments, stating, “The need for electrical infrastructure to support advanced computing and technological progress has never been greater.” He highlighted the role of these initiatives in supporting the implementation of significant legislation such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. These investments not only aim to strengthen the domestic supply of essential products for America’s electrification transformation but also position Schneider Electric as a pivotal player in the country’s clean energy transition.

The demand for Schneider Electric’s energy-efficient and sustainability solutions continues to rise, as evidenced by the company’s robust performance in its full-year 2023 financial results. This growth is particularly notable in infrastructure and data center end-markets, propelled by the surge in artificial intelligence applications.

The Tennessee investment forms part of Schneider Electric’s broader strategy to enhance its manufacturing presence in the U.S. and foster job creation. Since 2020, the company has injected over $440 million into its American manufacturing network. This includes the establishment of a new 160,000 square foot smart manufacturing plant in El Paso, Texas, which commenced operations in the summer of 2023.

With a history spanning 135 years in the U.S., Schneider Electric’s commitment to the American market is unwavering. The company employs over 19,000 workers nationwide, with its products and solutions integral to a vast array of critical and everyday applications. This investment reaffirms Schneider Electric’s role in driving forward America’s industrial and technological landscape.