Nikon is investing ¥25 billion ($159 million) in two new buildings dedicated to lens manufacture.
Nikon has had plans to redevelop the site at its Tochigi Nikon Corporation subsidiary for a while now, first discussing the demolition of existing buildings in 2024. This has now been completed, and a ground-breaking ceremony to mark the start of the construction phase of the project was held on January 7, 2026.
The new 20,000 square metre facilities are part of a ¥100 billion ($640 million) plan to develop new and/or additional production facilities that support all of Nikon's businesses by 2030. Tochigi Nikon is a core production base for high-precision optical components and modules used across the Nikon Group, as well as a center for production technology development. That means it is little surprise that the new facilities are aimed at reinforcing the manufacturing of interchangeable lenses for digital cameras. It will also produce high-performance objective lenses for microscopes, projection lenses for semiconductor lithography systems, and industrial lenses.
Nikon says the new buildings will feature a renewed production line, the introduction of a mixed-flow production system, and automated internal logistics. These advancements will create a flexible and efficient production system that can quickly respond to diverse business changes. If that means more lenses like this week's NIKKOR Z 24–105mm f/4–7.1 Zoom that can only be a good thing.
Construction is due to be completed in Summer 2027. As part of the project, and with a focus on connections with the local community and students, there are also plans to establish an exhibition area for factory tours and a corner where visitors can experience "the appeal of manufacturing."