In a strategic move to bolster support for dealers and customers, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas has announced the opening of a sustainable, state-of-the-art headquarters facility in Newman, Georgia. This adaptive-use facility it says will help propel the company’s growth in the Americas. It will also facilitate the development and production of new machinery and elevate customer support.
Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas adds that it continues to expand employment opportunities as it strengthens customer offerings and support. Since taking over the lead for the brand’s construction and mining equipment in the Americas from John Deere in 2022, the company has more than tripled its employee count. Encompassing 88,128 ft2 (8,187 m2) of office space and 27,686 ft2 (2,572 m2) dedicated to conference, ConSite command centre and training space, the headquarters has been designed to enhance creativity and inspire future growth. This innovative space it says is set to play a pivotal role in the company’s future expansion initiatives.
“In March 2022, we set out on a path to establish a more direct connection with customers. Our culture has been very much involved with listening, understanding and implementing customer feedback,” said Al Quinn, CEO of Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas. “By combining the resources of the excavator, loader and mining businesses, the company has experienced a tenfold demand from previous years. The investment in a regional Americas facility helps strengthen that direct connection to the customer.”
The new headquarters will help the company focus on key growth areas. This includes a robust compact and construction business network that establishes a direct link to the customer in North, Central, and South America. Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas also is expanding sales of mining excavators for construction and quarry sites in addition to mining sites. In addition to the new regional headquarters facility, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas is also creating operating bases for parts remanufacturing and expansion of the rental business that will also provide the customer with additional support and options.
“Establishing a direct connection with customers means listening and aligning with their needs and values,” said Quinn. “The industry has actively embraced a move toward sustainable practices, and this thoughtful consideration is reflected in the design of the new headquarters.” The campus spans 19 acres (76,890 m2) and was initially established as a wheel loader assembly and manufacturing facility in 1987. Embracing sustainable practices, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas opted for adaptive reuse principles in the development of the existing property. Over 75,347 ft2 (7,000 m2) of greenspace was reclaimed from the site by reconfiguring the employee parking areas and eliminating buildings and concrete. These changes it says represent and reinforce the company’s commitment to people, excellence and the environment.
Noteworthy sustainable practices included the recycling of concrete, steel and wood already on the site. Reclaimed materials included 5,101 yd3 (3,900 m3) of recycled concrete repurposed for roadway, fill and redistribution; 40,580 ft2 (3,770 m2) of exterior metal wall panels recycled and 125 tons (113 t) of steel frame structure reused. In addition, 69,965 ft2 (6,500 m2) of existing concrete slabs were reused, 4,920 ft2 (1,500 m2) of roof purlins, and 48,976 ft2 (4,550 m2) of old metal roof panels became decking for the new roof. Stairways and stair seating areas utilise 1,545 linear feet (471 m) of reclaimed heart pine wood. Recycled plastics were used to manufacture all carpet products.
The headquarters stands out for its energy-efficient design, featuring Low-E glass that blocks 62% of solar energy while allowing 70% of visible light to pass through. Skylights and roll-up doors contribute to natural lighting, integrating the indoors with the outdoors. An advanced energy management system monitors and optimises energy consumption and temperature changes.
The company concludes that the significant investment underscores a long-term commitment to maintaining a leadership position in technology, service and support. “Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas continues to support an extensive network of independent, local dealers and rental companies focused on providing customers with knowledgeable and experienced sales, service and parts personnel.”