More than 70 jobs are coming to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area after a Germany-based manufacturer selected Charlotte for its first U.S. manufacturing plant.
HSP US, LLC, a U.S. subsidiary of German company Trench Group GmbH, is investing more than $50 million in the new facility over five years, bringing 74 new jobs to the area. Operations are expected to begin in early 2026.
The HSP US factory will make bushings, which are vital to manufacturing high-voltage power transformers.
“Through these investments, we are not only strengthening our presence in the North American market but also laying the foundation for sustainable growth and the further development of the energy infrastructure in the region,” said Dr. Bahadir Basdere, CEO of Trench Group. “In doing so, we contribute to the stability and national security of the countries in North America.”
The move highlights Germany’s strong presence among foreign direct investments in the Charlotte Region. More than 200 German companies employ nearly 20,000 people in the Charlotte Region. The region’s major international airport, extensive rail and highway systems, and high-quality talent pool help make it an attractive destination for international companies.
“Charlotte’s growing skilled workforce in key electric and engineering fields combined with its business-friendly climate offers HSP US the ideal environment as we expand our operations globally,” adds Dr. Nils von Dietman, CEO, HSP US. “The proximity to our key customers also played a role.”
“Today’s announcement further cements the Charlotte Region as a global powerhouse, fueled by the strong presence of companies like HSP US,” said Gretchen Carson, director of business recruitment at the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. “Germany leads the way in foreign direct investment in the region. With the world-class connectivity of Charlotte Douglas International Airport and a top-notch talent pool, we are certain HSP will find the competitive advantages it needs to create exciting new opportunities and drive innovation in Charlotte.”
Trench Group GmbH, a global leader in the engineering and manufacturing of high-voltage power transmission components and systems based in Berlin, separated from Siemens Energy a year ago to become a standalone company.
The facility, located along Westinghouse Boulevard in southwest Charlotte near Siemens Energy’s new advanced manufacturing facility, will create several job opportunities, including machinists, engineers, and management, with an average wage of $77,315, above the MSA average.
“We are pleased to welcome HSP US to Charlotte,” said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles. “This new high-tech facility further strengthens Charlotte’s status as a growing energy hub and will bring advanced manufacturing jobs to our city. This is a continuation of our city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and build new relationships in Germany.”
“Mecklenburg County remains an economic engine in our state and region,” said Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners Chair Mark Jerrell. “We are pleased HSP US recognizes the strength of our local workforce and is choosing to invest in our community and bring a variety of skilled jobs.”
Christopher Chung, CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, said: “Foreign direct investment is a large contributor to North Carolina’s economy, and we welcome HSP US to the state. With the top business climate in the country, the largest manufacturing workforce in the Southeast, five top-tier research universities, and proximity to customers and supply chain components, North Carolina offers companies what they need to successfully expand their global footprint.”
This project was a collaborative effort between the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina and Duke Energy.
HSP will begin filling positions this fall and is in conversations with Central Piedmont Community College to create a customized workforce training and apprenticeship program.
“At Central Piedmont, we welcome the opportunity to work alongside industry leaders to design workforce training that leads directly to high-demand careers,” said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, president of Central Piedmont. “Our entire region benefits when employers invest in student success through hands-on learning and job placement. We see stronger talent pipelines, stronger communities, and a stronger economy. These partnerships meet today’s workforce needs and help shape the future of innovation and opportunity across the Charlotte region.”
