ZEISS, an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the optics and optoelectronics industries, announced today that it has expanded in Chesterfield, investing $24 million and creating 40 new jobs. The company’s expansion includes the opening of a new modern research and production facility.
“We’re thrilled to see yet another global innovator like ZEISS thriving in the St. Louis area,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Our state continues to build a reputation as a prime destination for industry-leading companies to invest and create quality jobs. ZEISS is the latest example of a world-class employer choosing Missouri due to our low costs, strong infrastructure, and skilled workforce.”
ZEISS has driven progress in medical technology for more than 100 years and develops and produces ophthalmological and microsurgical instruments in Chesterfield. ZEISS’ new facility will further strengthen its international network. In 2022, the company expanded the range of surgical instruments it offers after acquiring two Chesterfield-based companies, Kogent Surgical and Katalyst Surgical. Additional building space was acquired for these product areas and converted into modern production and office space.
“With the expansion, we offer our local team a highly attractive working environment,” said Magnus Reibenspiess, Head of ZEISS’ Microsurgery strategic business unit. “At the same time, we are increasing our capacities in response to the growing success of our business.”
The ZEISS corporate strategy includes expanding the global production network, aimed in part at strengthening the company’s operational excellence. More than 160 people work at the Chesterfield site, and the new building will expand the overall area to 64,500 square feet. It includes modern research and production facilities and a 2,300-square-foot ISO 7-certified clean room.
“ZEISS’ expanded facility in Chesterfield is an exciting development that’s bringing even more opportunities to the St. Louis region,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “We’re proud to join our partners in supporting another cutting-edge employer as it helps Missourians prosper.”
ZEISS was among the companies visited by Governor Mike Parson and the Missouri delegation during the Trade Mission to Germany in March 2023.
For this expansion, ZEISS will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.
What others are saying
“The new space will help us to optimize the production processes in Chesterfield by improving material flows – thus increasing our productivity while maintaining our high-quality levels,” said Hartmut A. Koenig, Head of ZEISS Competence Center Chesterfield. “We are confident that the new building complex will help us to strengthen our position in the surgical instrument market.”
“St. Louis County continues to demonstrate that this is the place for innovative companies to expand their global reach,” said St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page. “We welcome ZEISS to Chesterfield and appreciate the investment they are making in our region.”
About ZEISS
Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, which is listed on the MDAX and TecDAX of the German stock exchange, is one of the world's leading medical technology companies. The company supplies innovative technologies and application-oriented solutions designed to help doctors improve the quality of life of their patients. It provides complete packages of solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, including implants and consumables. The company creates innovative visualization solutions in the field of microsurgery and has approximately 4,823 employees worldwide.
To learn more about ZEISS, visit zeiss.com.
About the Missouri Department of Economic Development
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.
For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.
About the Missouri Works Program
As the state’s number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.