Ericsson to open its first automated smart factory in 2020
Swedish multinational network and telco firm Ericsson has announced plans to open its first fully-automated smart factory in the US, with operations due to begin at the facility early next year.
The factory will manufacture Advanced Antenna System radios that will enable boosted network coverage and capacity, benefitting both rural areas and the rollout of 5G in urban environments.
While the exact location of the proposed facility is subject to discussions with state and local authorities, Ericsson said in its 26 June press release that it is nonetheless committed to its early 2020 launch plans.
It added that the factory, though fully-automated, will have an initial staff headcount of around 100 people.
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"We continue to focus on working closely with our customers and supporting them in the buildout of 5G globally and in North America,” said Fredrik Jejdling, Executive Vice President and Head of Networks at Ericsson, in the press release.
“With today's announcement, we conclude months of preparations and can move into execution also in the U.S. In addition, we are digitalizing our entire global production landscape, including establishing this factory in the U.S. With 5G connectivity we're accelerating Industry 4.0, enabling automated factories for the future."
The company is also fast-tracking the flexible and modular addition of smart manufacturing technologies at its factories in Estonia, China and Brazil.
