Daifuku Doubles Down on US Expansion with AI-Powered Logistics Solutions
Indianapolis, IN & Tokyo, Japan – September 12, 2025 – Facing surging demand fueled by labor shortages and e-commerce growth, Japanese materials handling system manufacturer Daifuku is significantly expanding its US operations and investing heavily in next-generation automation technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics. the company announced a thorough strategy on tuesday to bolster its presence in the critical US market and strengthen its global competitiveness.
Daifuku’s expansion centers around an 80% production increase at its Indiana facility, recently completed and slated to begin operations in October. A substantial 5 billion yen (approximately $38 million USD) will be invested to double the plant’s capacity for producing essential logistics equipment like sorters and conveyor belts.
“The US is experiencing a confluence of factors – a shrinking labor pool coupled with explosive e-commerce growth – that are driving unprecedented demand for automation,” explained Tomoaki Terai, a Daifuku spokesperson. “We are responding to this need by significantly increasing our production capabilities and investing in the technologies that will define the future of logistics.”
The move comes as Daifuku’s North american sales continue to climb, reaching 174.1 billion yen ($1.5 trillion won) in the fiscal year ending December 2024 – a 70% increase since 2020. While currently holding less than 10% of the US market, Daifuku aims to gain ground against established competitors like Dematic, Honeywell Intelligrated, and KNAPP by prioritizing rapid delivery and comprehensive after-sales service. The Indiana expansion will also support a planned increase in the workforce to 800 employees.
Investing in the Future: AI and Robotics R&D
Beyond expanding production capacity, Daifuku is making a significant commitment to research and development. The company will establish new R&D hubs in Tokyo and Kyoto, deploying 140 technical personnel by the fiscal year 2027. these facilities will focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies – particularly AI-powered image recognition and advanced robotics – into its automated transportation systems.
Daifuku’s ambitions extend to automating tasks currently performed manually,including handling goods of varying shapes and sizes. President Hiroshi Geshiro revealed the company is even exploring the potential of