Yaskawa, a global technology supplier specializing in drives, motion controls, and robotics, is set to launch a new, state-of-the-art UK headquarters and manufacturing facility in Sunderland. The 35,000sq ft installation, located at Hillthorn Park adjacent to Nissan UK and the International Advanced Manufacturing Park, will be the company’s newest addition to its ambitious expansion strategy in Europe. While Yaskawa’s drives and motion products are produced in Cumbernauld, Scotland, the European robot plant in Slovenia meets 80% of European robot demand. Thousands of these robots are already deployed in the UK.
The electric and hybrid-automotive sector presents new growth opportunities for Yaskawa. Thus, the move to Hillthorn Park was strategic. David Walsh, Managing Director at Yaskawa UK Ltd, expressed his confidence in the UK and our new location in North East and its ability to drive major industrial investments, shape, create, and contribute to innovative automation solutions for several industries, including Automotive, Food and Beverage, Logistics, Packaging, Wood, and Metalworking. Additionally, the company plans to continue to expand its headcount over the next year. Yaskawa’s new location is a short distance from the International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP) and within an hour’s drive from Newcastle International Airport.
Supported by funding from central government, North East LEP, and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Legal & General’s £60 million business park will provide 620,000sq ft of prime industrial space in Washington, with 11 commercial buildings ranging in size from 21,550 – 124,250 sq ft.
Yaskawa’s move to Hillthorn Park continues the company’s commitment to become a more sustainable business. The newly built facility has higher energy efficiency and reduces the environmental impact of the company’s operations. The move is a demonstration of Yaskawa’s faith in its business prospects in the North East and the UK as a whole. The company is excited and expects to move into Hillthorn Park by next Spring, and believes it’s an exciting time for the business.
