Nipro Plans to Open First Device Manufacturing Facility in North America

Nipro Medical Corp. today announced plans to open its first North American manufacturing facility in Greenville, North Carolina.

The medical device developer said its $398 million project is expected to create 232 jobs over the next five years, including engineering, manufacturing, administrative and management positions. The plant will make devices for diabetes, chronic kidney disease and other kidney health conditions.

“This new facility represents an important milestone in Nipro’s commitment to the U.S. market, enabling us to deliver high-quality medical devices that improve patient outcomes and quality of life across the country,” Nipro Medical Corp. CEO Akira Shimizu said in a press release.

Osaka, Japan-based Nipro is the 36th largest medical equipment company in the world. Medical Design and Outsourcing2023 Medtech Big 100 Ranking by Revenue.

Nipro’s medical segment posted revenue of $3.19 billion this year, rising to $3.23 billion in fiscal 2024. In the coming weeks, we’ll release our Medtech Big 100 rankings for 2024 to see where Nipro ranks.

“We are excited to begin manufacturing our cutting-edge medical devices in the U.S., supporting local healthcare workers and patients with a stable supply chain and reduced transportation costs,” Tsuyoshi Yamazaki, senior managing director of global business at Nipro, said in a statement. “Our close proximity to our customers will allow us to better respond to their needs and provide timely and effective solutions.”

Nipro said the U.S. plant “will significantly reduce global transportation demand while reducing carbon dioxide emissions.” The new plant marks what Yamazaki called “a major milestone in our sustainability journey, reflecting our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint.”

Nipro has named Krizay Elenitoba-Johnson vice president of manufacturing operations and first plant manager.

“I look forward to working with our dedicated team and supportive community to achieve great success,” Elenitoba-Johnson said in a statement.