Ericsson Opens Updated Automated Smart Factory in China

Ericsson recently completed an 18-month refit of its smart manufacturing capabilities in Nanjing China via a $52 million upgrade of its existing factory. The now automated facility produces 5G and 4G radio technology products, which are used by communication service providers in the Chinese market to increase network capacity.

“This is another important milestone in our global supply readiness for 5G. Our factory in Nanjing is a great example of how our next-generation technology is changing the future of manufacturing for the better,” said Fredrik Jejdling, EVP and Head of Business Area Networks, Ericsson. “As a global company, we have gained insights from testing and applying 5G technology for industries and now we are bringing the learnings into our own factories, which will benefit the whole ecosystem….Our customers in China will benefit through the technology leadership, speed and capacity advantages that our automated smart factory will give us.”

The upgrade reportedly has modernized every step of the production process in Nanjing in preparation for the introduction and rapid deployments of 5G in China. The company has also modernized 5G testing equipment to be more efficient and very flexible across the product portfolio. Ericsson said its global supply chain strategy is to ensure the company works with customers more regionally through its European, Asian and American operations.