PFIFFNER Group, a Swiss company specializing in technology solutions for the energy sector, has started construction on a new manufacturing facility in Franklin, Georgia. The project represents an estimated investment of $18.5 million and is expected to create up to 60 full-time jobs in Heard County over the next decade.
Governor Brian Kemp commented on the development, stating, “PFIFFNER Group joins a growing list of international business partners who choose to create jobs in Georgia because they know it is a good bet. This particular project will not only add to our strong manufacturing sector, it will also produce critical infrastructure for power generation, ensuring our state has a reliable energy grid for years to come.”
The company’s decision to expand into the United States follows changes and advancements within the electricity grid technology industry. Marcel Rüfenacht, CEO of PFIFFNER Group, said, “PFIFFNER Group has chosen now to expand in the United States as a result of modernizations and innovation across the electricity grid technology industry. Georgia stood out to our team for its proximity to customers, strong infrastructure, supportive business environment, a quality education system, and an ideal, available site fitting our company’s needs. We look forward to continuing to work with the State of Georgia, Heard County, and the many other partners who have supported the location of our new production facility.”
The new plant will be located at Franklin Industrial Park East on Highway 34 and will manufacture instrument transformers for high-voltage substations as well as transformer bushings for manufacturers and utilities. Operations are scheduled to begin in 2027.
In addition to roles such as electromechanical assembly workers, machinists, machine operators, electrical engineers, and mechanical engineers will be recruited over several years.
Franklin Mayor Kevin Hayes welcomed the announcement: “On behalf of the City of Franklin, I am excited to welcome our newest industry partner, PFIFFNER Moser-Glaser. This partnership means more than new buildings or new jobs. It represents opportunity for our residents to work close to home and for our young people to build a future for themselves here. What makes this moment especially meaningful is that PFIFFNER Moser-Glaser has chosen not just a location, but a community. We are a small town built on hard work, trust, and a shared dedication to success. We are excited about what we will accomplish together and are grateful for your commitment to our community.”
Kathy Knowles from the Development Authority of Heard County noted early partnerships between PFIFFNER Group and local educational institutions: “We are proud to welcome PFIFFNER Moser-Glaser to Franklin and grateful for their decision to locate here. Their investment reflects their commitment to our mutual priorities of sustainable growth and positive community impact, making them a perfect fit for our long-term vision,” she said. “We especially appreciate the partnerships formed early on between PFIFFNER, our school system, and West Georgia Technical College to create apprenticeship opportunities that prepare local students for high-quality jobs right here at home. Their commitment to responsibility, innovation, and community aligns seamlessly with the values we work to uphold.”
Katie Kirkpatrick from Metro Atlanta Chamber highlighted logistical advantages: “With this exciting news, PFIFFNER Group joins an active international business community in metro Atlanta,” she said. “Locating in Heard County positions them to take full advantage of the global connectivity offered by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. We are pleased to welcome PFIFFNER Group as part of our dynamic and growing cleantech ecosystem.”
Senior Project Manager Mellissa Takeuchi represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this project along with other regional partners.
Pat Wilson from GDEcD commented on Georgia’s appeal: “Georgia’s relationships in Europe continue to attract world-class companies such as PFIFFNER Group that are advancing our energy and e-mobility technology,” he said. “We are excited to welcome PFIFFNER Group to Georgia, and congratulations to Heard County, the City of Franklin, and their partners for the opportunities this will create.”
PFIFFNER is headquartered in Hirschthal, Switzerland with about 1,200 employees globally across eight production sites.
The Georgia State Executive leads state government operations from Atlanta as part of its executive branch responsibilities while supporting economic development efforts both domestically and internationally through offices such as its representation office established in Japan since 1973.
Accordingly,the Government of Georgia provides governance services designed both for residents’ welfare as well as regulatory oversight supporting projects like these investments.
