Kyowa Europe opens new production facility in Sofia

Kyowa Europe, the European subsidiary of Japan's Kyowa Manufacturing, has officially opened a new production facility in Sofia's Iskar Industrial Zone, expanding its manufacturing capacity for the European market.

The opening ceremony was attended by Japanese Ambassador to Bulgaria Chikahisa Sumi, Kyowa Manufacturing President Shigeyuki Fujimoto, senior company executives, business partners, employees, and customers, CE Report quotes BTA.

The investment comes 14 years after Kyowa established its Bulgarian operations in 2012. The new facility includes two industrial robots that will increase production capacity to up to 1,000 units per day.

Kyowa Europe manufactures motorized conveyor rollers equipped with advanced microcontrollers for use in conveyor and sorting systems. The products are designed for logistics and warehouse automation, enabling real-time tracking and positioning of transported goods.

The Sofia plant is one of only three Kyowa Manufacturing production sites worldwide, alongside facilities in Japan and the United States, and primarily serves customers across the European Union.

Company executives said the expansion reflects the strong performance of Kyowa's Bulgarian operations. According to Bulgarian Managing Director Dimitar Chalamov, growing demand for warehouse and factory automation is driving the company's future development.

"Electronics are becoming more affordable, accelerating automation and the adoption of the products we manufacture," Chalamov said. "The investment required to automate warehouses and production facilities is decreasing, making these technologies accessible to a much broader market."

Kyowa Manufacturing President Shigeyuki Fujimoto described the opening as a milestone for the company.

"Today is a very special day for us. I am proud to open our new factory here in Bulgaria. We will continue to grow together with our valued employees, customers, and partners," he said.

Global Marketing Director Kazuya Ichieda said the new facility represents the company's long-term vision.

"This factory is much more than a building. It reflects our vision for the future. With this investment, we aim to strengthen our production capabilities, improve efficiency, and create an even better working environment for our employees," he said.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Chikahisa Sumi said Kyowa Manufacturing has established itself as a leading player in the motorized roller industry and has made a significant contribution to economic ties between Japan and Bulgaria.

"Through its business success, Kyowa Manufacturing has contributed substantially to the development of economic relations between Japan and Bulgaria," Sumi said. "This factory is a strong symbol of the close partnership between our two countries, where employees from both nations work together toward shared goals."

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