Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen is leading an international economic partnership trip with a city delegation through May 12 to Japan to visit SMC Corporation and Toyota Automated Logistics.
Jensen
SMC Corp. of America, a leader in pneumatic technology, is the U.S. subsidiary of SMC Corp. based in Tokyo, Japan. SMC serves as the largest private sector employer in Noblesville, employing more than 950 full-time employees, and investing $200 million since its headquarters relocation and facility build in 2009.
“Partnerships like the ones we’ve built with SMC Corp. and Toyota Automated logistics don’t happen by accident — they’re the result of trust, consistency and a shared vision for long-term success,” Jensen stated. “These companies have made significant investments in Noblesville, with $400 million combined, supporting not only facilities, but also our workforce, our people and our future.”
As part of Toyota Industries Corp., Toyota Automated Logistics is a global partner for integrated warehouse automation. Founded in April, it combines three group companies — Bastian Solutions, Vanderlande’s Warehousing business and viastore — under one brand as an integrated automation hub to deliver scalable systems, intelligent software and life-cycle services.
The city joined TAL and TICO leaders to break ground on the manufacturing and corporate headquarters campus in Noblesville in 2024, with the single-largest investment in Noblesville of $165 million. The 164-acre campus will feature facilities designed to foster collaboration, enhance operational efficiency and accommodate future expansion.
Toyota brings 400 retained jobs through consolidation and 250 new full-time employees committed with its headquarters relocation to Noblesville.
“Their continued growth here reflects confidence in our community, and we take seriously our role in maintaining and strengthening those relationships,” Jensen stated. “This mission advances Noblesville’s economy and protects existing Hoosier jobs, and we’re proud to support partners who are creating opportunity, driving innovation and choosing Noblesville as a place to invest and grow. Former Indiana Lt. Governor John Mutz paved the way 40 years ago for Indiana to have meaningful partnerships with Japan, spurring economic development to our state. Through his leadership and political courage, Indiana is No. 1 per capita in the U.S. for Japanese investment.”
The delegation consists of Jensen, Noblesville Common Council President Mike Davis, Noblesville Common Councilor Aaron Smith, Noblesville Community Development Director Sarah Reed, Noblesville Communications Director Lexie Rock, Noblesville Economic Development Director Andrew Murray and Noblesville Engineer Ali Krupski.
