For Immediate Release by Greenville Area Development Corporation

GREENVILLE, SC – October 30, 2024 – Koops Automation Systems (Koops), a leader in delivering custom automation solutions, is expanding its Greenville County facility with a multimillion dollar investment, creating new jobs and enhancing its ability to serve a growing customer base across multiple industries.

Jeff VanUffelen, Vice President of Koops Automation Systems, emphasized the significance of the expansion saying, “Greenville has been a great fit for Koops, and we’re excited to deepen our roots here. This expansion reflects our confidence in the local talent pool and the Upstate’s strong support for advanced manufacturing. By growing our team and enhancing our capabilities, we’ll be better equipped to deliver the automation solutions our customers need to thrive in a competitive global market.”

For more than 30 years, Koops, an employee-owned (ESOP) company, has specialized in designing, building, and integrating cutting-edge automation systems, including robotic systems, automated assembly lines, and material handling solutions. Headquartered in Michigan, approximately half of Koops' business is dedicated to the automotive sector, supplying first and second-tier suppliers to automakers, while other areas of focus include life sciences, medical, electrification, construction, defense, and general industries. Known for its constant innovation and early adoption of emerging technologies, Koops is trusted by manufacturers to solve complex challenges and help them achieve their goals.

“Partnering with the Koops team on this expansion has shown their dedication to both innovation and community investment,” said Max Stewart, CEO of the Greenville Area Development Corporation. “Their focus on creating high-quality jobs and advancing automation technology aligns well with Greenville County’s strengths, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of this growth on our region’s industries and workforce.”

The expansion will move Koops’ operations from a leased 45,000-square-foot facility, which has been a key part of their Greenville County operations since 2013, to a larger, 80,000-square-foot owned facility, located at 120 Elcon Drive. The planned expansion will increase the company’s capacity to serve more manufacturers and expand its presence in industries such as automotive, life sciences, and aerospace.

“Koops Automation Systems’ decision to invest further in Greenville County is a testament to the strength of our business climate and the quality of our workforce,” said Dan Tripp, Chairman of Greenville County Council. “This expansion will bring new opportunities to our community and reinforce Greenville’s standing as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation.”

In addition to the expanded physical footprint, the project will bring new jobs to the area, including engineering roles, skilled trades positions (electricians, mechanics, machinists), and management roles. Career opportunities are available on Koops’ careers page for those interested in joining the team. “Koops Automation Systems has built a strong reputation for delivering innovative automation solutions that drive efficiency and growth across multiple industries,” added Stewart. “Their decision to expand here highlights both their confidence in Greenville County and the exceptional quality of their work. We’re proud to have a company of Koops’ caliber continuing to invest in our community and look forward to supporting their ongoing success.”

Additional quotes:

“Congratulations to Koops Automation Systems on its continued success in South Carolina and the job opportunities it is creating in the Greenville County community. This announcement is a testament to our state’s skilled workforce, and we look forward to continuing our support of Koops in the years ahead.”
- Gov. Henry McMaster

“We are excited Koops Automation Systems is expanding its facility and investing in the Upstate. This announcement is further proof that Greenville County and South Carolina continue to be the right fit for innovative manufacturing companies like Koops.”
- Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

ABOUT GREENVILLE AREA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
The Greenville Area Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2001 by Greenville County Council. As leaders in economic development for Greenville, GADC provides support and resources to businesses of all sizes and acts as a liaison between the business community and local government. GADC works closely with government officials and agencies to ensure that the needs and concerns of businesses are heard and addressed. For more information about Greenville Area Development Corporation, visit GreenvilleEconomicDevelopment.com.