ebm-papst opens factory in Xi'an

Already in 2019, ebm-papst began operations in Xi'an and has continuously developed the site since then. The location covers an area of approximately 60,000 m².

For the ceremonial opening on October 20, 2025, representatives from politics and business welcomed ebm-papst. L. to r.: Mary Yan (Vice President of Strategic Purchasing ebm-papst APAC & MEA), Thomas Nürnberger (CSO of the ebm-papst Group and CEO of Air Technology APAC & MEA), Jia Qiang (Director of the Administrative Committee of the Xi'an Economic and Technology Development Zone), Jan Philippiak (ebm-papst shareholder), Meng Hao (Deputy Mayor of Xi'an), Dr. Klaus Geißdörfer (CEO of the ebm-papst Group), Arlene Xu (Vice President of Human Resources, ebm-papst APAC & MEA), Ramon Liu (Vice President of Operations & Integrated Supply Chain ebm-papst APAC & MEA).

In Xi'an, the industry leader produces energy-efficient fan solutions for key business areas such as data centers and cleanrooms.

The world's leading manufacturer of fans and motors has officially opened its plant in Xi'an. With the completion of the third expansion phase, the company sends a strong signal for its long-term growth strategy in China and emphasizes the importance of this market for the corporate group.

Already in 2019, ebm-papst began operations in Xi'an and has continuously developed the site since then. The location covers an area of around 60,000 m², and approximately 1,000 employees are already working on site. Through the third expansion, which involved an investment of around 30 million euros, a further 500 jobs are created. The completion of the plant marks another milestone in the company's "Local for Local" strategy.

"With our glocalization strategy 'Local for Local,' which has been ongoing since 2017, we are established locally and independently in the regions of Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas. The Chinese market has always been of great importance to ebm-papst, and we already record a localization rate of around 90 percent in China. 'Local for Local' offers us three clear advantages: proximity to customers, independence in the supply chain, and reduction of emissions," explains Dr. Klaus Geißdörfer, CEO of the ebm-papst Group.
The site combines various areas under one roof, including production, logistics, research and development, quality assurance, and purchasing. This ensures efficient processes and optimal alignment with regional market requirements.

In Xi'an, the industry leader produces energy-efficient fan solutions for key business areas such as data centers and cleanrooms.

A particular focus is on the continuous expansion of local development activities. "The interplay between the local R&D departments at our two Chinese locations – Shanghai and Xi'an – enables us to serve our customers in China as effectively and flexibly as possible," emphasizes Thomas Nürnberg, CSO of the ebm-papst Group and CEO of Air Technology APAC & MEA. "Especially Xi'an strengthens our innovation capacity. With a comprehensive R&D laboratory focused on product reliability, durability, and adaptability across various application scenarios, we are actively driving the development of energy-efficient EC fans, digital ventilation solutions, and retrofit concepts. The close integration with local universities also creates a strong foundation for future-oriented technologies and the promotion of young talents."

The new plant is also a flagship project for responsible industrial building. Energy-efficient glazing, LED lighting, a geothermal heat pump, and a large-scale photovoltaic system contribute to reducing the CO₂ footprint. Reusable packaging and fully electric shuttle bus transportation complement the sustainability concept. For this commitment, ebm-papst Xi'an was awarded the "National Green Factory" by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in January 2025.

At the grand opening, ebm-papst welcomed representatives from politics and business as well as the Xi'an city administration. The latter recognized the project as an important contribution to local economic growth. Also present were ebm-papst shareholder Jan Philippiak and the top management of the group. "Since 1996, ebm-papst has steadily expanded its presence in China," explains Jan Philippiak on behalf of the shareholder families. "The official opening of our Xi'an plant marks a significant step in the further development of our activities and creates the conditions for sustainable growth and technological excellence. This investment is another testament to our strong commitment to the Chinese market – a region of great importance for ebm-papst."

ebm-papst has been active in China since 1996 and currently employs around 1,700 staff at locations such as Shanghai, Qingdao, Xi'an, Beijing, and Hong Kong. In the fiscal year 2024/2025, the company achieved a turnover of approximately 360 million euros in China. Key markets include fan solutions for cleanrooms, renewable energy, and data centers.