Charlotte is expanding its footprint in the global market with a new North American Experience Center by BHS Corrugated North America, as reported by Mecklenburg County. The German-based company's subsidiary is establishing a 25,000-square-foot innovation hub in the Rushmore Five at Ballantyne, expected to create more than 50 jobs over the coming years.
Offering more than just a physical space for its operations, the BHS Experience Center is set up to deliver an interactive customer experience. According to the announcement on Mecklenburg County website, Scott Purrington, the president and CEO of BHS North and South America, expressed his vision behind the center, noting, "We're creating an innovation ecosystem where customers, partners and our team can collaborate to drive the industry forward through hands-on experiences, cutting-edge technology, and personalized support."
Positions at the center will range widely, from executive leadership and sales to information technology and finance. Purrington told Mecklenburg County that with the help of Charlotte's talent pool, BHS has "a multifunctional and highly effective team." The team has already welcomed more than 25 new members and anticipates that the build-out will be completed by fall.
The Experience Center isn't all about just the numbers; it's designed to forge connections and inspire innovation within the industry. Among its highlights will be The Service Command Post, equipped to utilize real-time data for proactive customer solutions, and The Equipment Showroom, inviting visitors to immerse in the advanced manufacturing capabilities through augmented reality. Rounding out the center's offerings will be The Training Academy, aiming to align theoretical knowledge with its practical application in the field.
A focal point of regional economic importance, the BHS Experience Center is the result of collaborative efforts which included Mecklenburg County, the City of Charlotte, and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. Reflecting on the successful pursuit of the project, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles remarked on Mecklenburg County, "Their decision to open an Experience Center here shows how Charlotte stands out as a hub for both advanced manufacturing and innovation."
Vestian, a commercial firm, conducted the site search for BHS Corrugated, ultimately settling on Charlotte's Ballantyne district as the ideal location. Affirming the choice, John Barton, president of Northwood Office, said on Mecklenburg County, "BHS Corrugated's selection of Rushmore Five in Ballantyne validates our commitment to creating environments where innovation thrives."
The presence of BHS in Charlotte only further strengthens the region's ties with international business, with over 1,000 foreign-owned companies already calling the area home. German companies are notably significant, employing more than 19,000 people in the area, making Germany the leader in investment in and around Charlotte.
