Fujifilm Manufacturing U.S.A. Inc. announces the consolidation of Fujifilm Graphics Systems’ national warehousing and distribution center from Suwanee, Georgia to Greenwood. The consolidation, which will include the distribution of PS printing plates, chemistry products and processing equipment, is slated for completion by April 1, 2009. The purpose of the warehouse consolidation is to reduce warehousing and transportation costs within the Fujifilm distribution network.
“Bringing this project to Greenwood took the cooperation and support of the Partnership Alliance, South Carolina Department of Commerce and the Greenwood County Council,” said Shin Kataoka, President, Fujifilm – South Carolina. “We are very appreciative of their support,” said Kataoka. The warehouse and distribution consolidation project, once completed, will help sustain over thirty jobs for the Greenwood complex. “Greenwood County Council has always been supportive of Fujifilm’s efforts and will continue to be,” said Robbie Templeton, Greenwood County Council chairman. “Fujifilm is an outstanding corporate citizen and we appreciate all they do for our community,” continued Templeton.
“The collaboration between our local government, the Partnership Alliance, South Carolina Department of Commerce, and our existing businesses is key to creating jobs and expanding opportunities that will ensure the growth of our community,” said Thornwell Dunlap III, board chairman, Partnership Alliance. “We have had a long partnership with Fujifilm and look forward to their future success.”
“Fujifilm is a leader in manufacturing imaging and photography products for consumers and businesses. The company has also been a valued member of the state’s business community for more than 20 years. Fujifilm’s decision to expand its operations in Greenwood County is a positive reflection of the state’s workforce and evidence that our business-friendly environment is working to encourage growth among existing industry. Thanks to the team effort by state and local officials, Greenwood County will benefit from this investment now and in the years ahead,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
Once the consolidation is complete, the Fujifilm – South Carolina distribution center will service approximately 20 Fujifilm Regional Distribution Centers in addition to its current domestic and international activities. The Greenwood distribution center is one of the largest Fujifilm distribution centers in the world at approximately 500,000 sq. feet, and it boasts over 18,000 pallet locations. The center will manage a variety of shipping modalities including trucks, couriers, padded vans, air and rail.
FUJIFILM Manufacturing U.S.A. Inc. began manufacturing operations in South Carolina in 1988. The Greenwood manufacturing complex is currently comprised of five high technology manufacturing plants, the Greenwood Research Laboratories and the largest Fujifilm distribution center in the world. Nearly 1,000 associates are employed at the 500-acre complex currently manufacturing digital and conventional pre-sensitized plates, QuickSnap one-time-use recyclable cameras and color photographic paper.