Nikon Corporation has officially commenced the construction of two major new buildings at its Tochigi Nikon subsidiary, marked by a ground-breaking ceremony held on January 7, 2026. Located in Otawara City, Tochigi Prefecture, this expansion represents a significant investment of approximately 25 billion yen and is designed to modernise and reinforce Nikon’s core production capabilities for high-precision optical technology.
As a primary hub for the Nikon Group’s manufacturing, Tochigi Nikon is responsible for the production of essential optical components and modules. The new facilities will specifically focus on the manufacturing of interchangeable lenses for digital cameras, high-performance objective lenses for microscopes, industrial lenses, and the highly complex projection lenses used in semiconductor lithography systems. By expanding this site, Nikon aims to create a more resilient and versatile manufacturing infrastructure.
Technological innovation is at the heart of the new site’s design. Nikon plans to implement a mixed-flow production system and automated internal logistics, allowing the factory to remain agile in the face of shifting market demands. These advancements are expected to result in a highly efficient production environment that can quickly adapt to the diverse needs of different business sectors.
Beyond technical efficiency, the architectural design of the two buildings emphasises employee engagement and collaboration. A central area connecting the structures will feature open spaces filled with natural light, providing dedicated zones for meetings, relaxation, and spontaneous communication between departments. Nikon’s goal is to foster a more integrated workplace culture where different job functions can interact more freely.
The project also includes a community-focused element. Plans are in place to establish a factory tour exhibition area and a specialised corner where local residents and students can experience the precision of manufacturing firsthand. This initiative is intended to strengthen Nikon’s ties with the local community and inspire the next generation of technical talent.
Spanning a total floor space of approximately 20,000 square meters, the construction began in December 2025 and is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2027. Once operational, these new buildings will serve as a cornerstone for Nikon’s vision of a flexible, high-tech manufacturing future.
You can find out more on the Nikon website.