The KLS Martin Group, a global leader in innovative surgical technology, is establishing its first U.S. manufacturing operations in Jacksonville, Florida. KLS Martin Manufacturing will invest more than $5 million in the local community and hire at least 25 associates.

Headquartered in Germany, KLS Martin works closely with medical specialists to continuously optimize medical technology solutions and currently employs more than 1,000 people worldwide. KLS Martin Manufacturing will bring high-tech, high-skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs to Jacksonville. The focus of the new operations will be on precision 3D printing and milling of products for reconstructive surgery. The KLS Martin Group established KLS Martin LP, in 1993, as a sales company that is headquartered in Jacksonville and serves as the North American arm of the company’s global network.

Tom Johnston, of KLS Martin Manufacturing, said, “The KLS Martin Group is excited to establish its first surgical implant manufacturing company outside of Germany here in Jacksonville. This new company will allow the KLS Martin Group to provide innovative products through cutting edge 3D printing technology that will improve patient care and surgical outcomes.”

Crystal Sircy, Enterprise Florida’s Executive Vice President/COO, said, “Florida’s job creators are growing across the state. Global leaders like KLS Martin are helping us demonstrate the state’s position as the best place for businesses to grow, and this new facility – their first in the nation – allows us to further tell Florida’s success story.”

Partners in this headquarters project include Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, City of Jacksonville, JAXUSA, CareerSource Florida and Enterprise Florida. While the company considered several sites and states to set up its manufacturing hub, ultimately Jacksonville’s competitive location, access to talent and current footprint were key reasons in the company’s decision, state officials said.

Mark Frisch, JAXUSA Partnership Chair, said, “It’s always encouraging when a company has one line of its business here and then chooses Jacksonville when it’s time to invest and grow another division. This project with KLS Martin is another great example that we are a place full of wide-open opportunities for global companies across our target industries and have the skilled workforce businesses need to succeed.”

Governor Scott said, “I am proud to announce that KLS Martin has chosen Jacksonville as the best place to establish its first United States manufacturing operations and create 25 new jobs. Our work to make Florida the most business-friendly state in the nation is encouraging more and more job creators to invest in our state and create new opportunities for our families.”

Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, said, “The strategic investments and tax cuts Florida has championed for high-tech manufacturers is helping to attract new companies like KLS Martin to our state. I am excited to welcome KLS and its 25 new manufacturing jobs to Jacksonville and our greater Florida community.”

CareerSource Florida President/, CEO Chris Hart IV said, “The selection of Florida as the site for KLS Martin Group’s first U.S. manufacturing facility is a testament to the state’s increasingly skilled workforce. Ranked second in the nation for FDA registered medical device manufacturing facilities, Florida is home to nearly 19,000 workers in this industry.”