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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

KI Logistics Invests $11.5 Million To Establish North American Headquarters In Greenville County, South Carolina

11/01/2013
KI Logistics, a subsidiary of Japan-based global logistics leader and innovator Kimura, Inc., will invest $11.5 million to establish its 206,000 square foot North American headquarters and major logistics facility at The Matrix Business and Technology Park in Greenville County, South Carolina, with plans to generate up to149 new jobs over the next several years.

“Our mission is to provide leading edge logistics capabilities, superior customer service, operational excellence and rapid delivery to support manufacturing customers in industries including automotive, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods and general industry arenas,” said Harry Chase, Vice President of Logistics for KI Logistics. “We are extremely pleased to establish our new operations here in Greenville County, and very appreciative for the support and leadership of the Greenville Area Development Corporation, readySC, South Carolina Department of Commerce and others who assisted in making this announcement a reality.”

Established in May, 2002 Kimura, Inc. started its operations in Laurens, South Carolina in June, 2003. Kimura is owned by Kimura Unity Co. Ltd. based in Nagoya, Japan. Parent company Kimura Inc. already operates a 70,000 square foot facility in Laurens, South Carolina, which manufactures steel containers and racks, primarily for the automotive market, Chase noted. The century-old organization is best known for its leading-edge expertise in logistics and distribution.

“Our systems are based on a culture of continuous improvement to enhance results while lowering costs for customers,” said Chase. “We intend to make this facility a showcase of our expertise, efficiently assisting clients in optimizing their supply chain and operations while teaching and training a new generation of associates to embrace the lean tools and processes we embrace organizationally. We believe Upstate South Carolina is the ideal location to attract and retain the workforce, and the customers, that we want.”

KI Logistics’ expansion into South Carolina allows the organization to “add capabilities and enhance responsiveness to regional customers,” Chase added. “We see tremendous opportunity to grow our business in the Southeast, and to create quality jobs here in response to growing demand for leading edge logistics applications and supply chain enhancements.”

“We are delighted that Kimura is expanding its presence in our state with the addition of KI Logistics’ new facility, creating more than 100 jobs,” said Gov. Nikki Haley. “Our state is equipped with all the right assets for logistics providers to succeed – deep-water port facilities, efficient highways and rail systems.”

“The transportation, distribution and logistics sector is among the fastest-growing industry segments today,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. “Companies view South Carolina as the ideal place for getting their products to market, and we are pleased to see Kimura successfully grow in our state with the addition of KI Logistics.”

“KI Logistics is a wonderful example of an international business that is using world-class technologies and lean processes to expand their brand in the Upstate,” said Dr. Bob Taylor, board member of the Greenville Area Development Corporation and chairman of Greenville County Council. “The company is a globally respected business focused on innovation and known for its community involvement, and we welcome them to Greenville County.”

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