New Chennai facility will expand local production capacity and support APAC & MEA markets.
ebm‑papst has broken ground on its third manufacturing unit in India, marking a significant step in the company's regional expansion strategy. The new facility, located in Chennai, will strengthen the company's “Local for Local” manufacturing approach, aimed at enhancing supply chain resilience and meeting rising regional demand across the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa (APAC & MEA) markets.
The company has acquired a 57,600 m² (14.2-acre) plot for the project. In its first phase, the plant will cover 23,000 m² (approx. 247,600 ft²) with a total investment of €36 million (approx. INR 340 crore or $38.5 million). Completion is scheduled by the end of 2026. Once operational, the facility is expected to employ around 700 people and will allow ebm‑papst to deliver customized fan and motor solutions more efficiently to regional customers.
“This investment reflects our long-term vision for India,” said Atul Tripathi, Managing Director of ebm‑papst India. “By boosting local production, we are not only catering to the growing demand of our Indian customers but also creating sustainable employment opportunities that contribute to the country’s industrial development.”
The Chennai plant is part of ebm‑papst’s broader effort to decentralize production and align with local market requirements. The strategy emphasizes faster delivery, regional customization, and increased responsiveness in volatile supply chain environments.
"As a technology leader, we are leveraging our glocalization strategy ‘local for local’ to serve the APAC & MEA region with tailored solutions," said Dr. Klaus Geissdoerfer, CEO of the ebm‑papst Group. Thomas Nuernberger, CSO of the ebm‑papst Group and CEO Air Technology APAC & MEA, added: “By localizing production and strengthening supply chains, we are ensuring that we can respond quickly and effectively to the needs of our Indian customers.”
In 2023, ebm‑papst also launched a new Global Capability Centre (GCC) in Chennai. The 2,800 m² (approx. 30,100 ft²) facility will host 300 specialists focused on developing digital tools for the company’s intelligent fan systems and global process optimization.
ebm‑papst has operated in India since 1996 and currently runs two production sites, four sales offices, and multiple warehouses, employing approximately 375 people prior to this expansion.