Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, has unveiled ambitious plans to invest $140 million in expanding its U.S. manufacturing operations in 2024. This significant investment underscores the company’s commitment to supporting critical infrastructure, industries, and the burgeoning demand for data center solutions across the country.
The investment will primarily focus on bolstering Schneider Electric’s manufacturing capabilities in Tennessee, with $85 million earmarked for transforming and equipping an existing 500,000 square foot building in Mt. Juliet and upgrading its Smyrna manufacturing operations. These facilities will manufacture custom electrical switchgear and medium voltage power distribution products, serving as vital components in supporting America’s electrification transformation.
T.W. Frierson is excited to announce we’ve been engaged as Schneider Electric’s design build partner for the buildout of the existing facility in Mt. Juliet, TN. Our team completed the design and construction of this 500,000 square foot shell building for First Industrial Real Estate in 2022 – the shell building represented our 10th major project in the Maddox Road Industrial Park and we’re excited to continue providing services for the tenants in the park.
The new plant in Mt. Juliet is expected to begin manufacturing and shipping products to Schneider’s customers in 2024 and is expected to be fully operational in 2025. The plants will also incorporate advanced manufacturing technologies and software to improve operational performance, achieve energy savings, and reduce carbon footprint, among other benefits. The expansion initiative is expected to create approximately 455 jobs in Tennessee. Roles will encompass a spectrum of positions, including manufacturing technicians, engineers, test technicians, and quality leads, among others. This influx of employment opportunities underscores Schneider Electric’s commitment to fostering job creation and economic growth in the communities where it operates.
Aamir Paul, President of North America Operations at Schneider Electric, emphasized the critical role of electrical infrastructure in advancing technological progress and supporting the clean energy transition. He highlighted how these investments align with the company’s mission to strengthen the domestic supply chain and support initiatives such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Inflation Reduction Act.
The decision to expand manufacturing operations in Tennessee reflects Schneider Electric’s ongoing efforts to enhance its American manufacturing presence. Since 2020, the company has invested over $440 million in its U.S. manufacturing and distribution network, demonstrating its commitment to streamlining production processes, staying competitive, and bolstering domestic supply chain capabilities.
Schneider Electric’s investment in Tennessee is part of a broader strategy to leverage advanced manufacturing technologies and software to improve operational performance, achieve energy savings, and reduce carbon footprint. The company’s continued focus on sustainability and innovation aligns with its position as a leader in enabling smart factory transformation.
As Schneider Electric embarks on this new chapter of expansion and growth, its partnership with T.W. Frierson underscores a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Together, they will play a pivotal role in driving economic prosperity and technological advancement in Middle Tennessee and beyond.