Atlanta, GA ~ In a recent announcement, Governor Brian P. Kemp revealed that Ritz Instrument Transformers (Ritz), an international manufacturer of instrument transformers and cast parts for the utility and original equipment manufacturing (OEM) sectors, will be investing $28 million in a new facility in Waynesboro, Georgia. This expansion is expected to create 130 new jobs in Burke County.

Governor Kemp expressed his excitement about Ritz's decision to expand in Georgia, stating that the state has all the necessary resources for businesses to thrive. He also mentioned that this project aligns with their efforts to bring more opportunities to rural areas of the state. The governor had a face-to-face meeting with Ritz during his trip to Germany in 2023, which played a significant role in securing this investment.

Ritz specializes in developing and producing instrument transformers ranging from 600 V to 500 kV and solid insulation bus-bar systems. The company currently operates two facilities in Georgia, one of which is a temporary facility in Burke County that can support 30 jobs. These positions will be transferred to the new facility once it becomes operational. The other existing facility in Lavonia has been operating since 2010 and produces low-voltage, medium-voltage, and high-voltage instrument transformers for the utility and OEM sectors.

Scott Flowers, CEO and General Manager of Ritz USA, expressed his enthusiasm for this investment and stated that it marks the single-largest investment for the Ritz Group so far. He also highlighted their commitment to the North American market and their excitement about making Waynesboro their long-term home. Flowers credited the availability of a well-trained workforce and support from Burke County and the state of Georgia as key factors in choosing Waynesboro as their location. He also mentioned that with the rapid expansion of the U.S. electrical grid due to factors such as electric vehicle adoption, data center growth, renewable energy generation, and an increase in manufacturing, Ritz's new facility will play a crucial role in meeting the demand.

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The new facility will be located at Burke County Industrial Park and is expected to begin operations in late 2025. Ritz will be hiring for various roles, including management, administrative staff, technicians, operators, maintenance, and testers over the next few years. Interested individuals can learn more about career opportunities with Ritz on their website.

Austin Stacy, Executive Director of the Development Authority of Burke County, expressed his excitement about Ritz's decision to choose Waynesboro for their new facility. He mentioned that this investment will kick off the final phase of the Industrial Park and serve as a catalyst for completing the remaining portion. Stacy also highlighted the benefits that Ritz will have by tapping into a strong workforce and establishing a solid presence with their customers.

Adela Kelley from the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Global Commerce team represented the state in this competitive project in partnership with the Development Authority of Burke County and the State of Georgia Europe Office.

GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson emphasized Georgia's strong relationships in Europe and how they have helped position the state and investor companies for long-term success. He mentioned that Ritz's presence in Georgia has grown over 30 years through partnerships at every level. This growth includes building an additional facility in Hartwell. Wilson also highlighted how international partnerships like those with Germany continue to benefit Georgians and critical industries.

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Georgia has been at the forefront of fostering healthy industry practices, promoting collaboration and innovation, and positioning itself as a leader in developing emerging technologies for evolving industries such as electric vehicles. In recent years, investments in Georgia's e-mobility operations have exceeded $27 billion. The state's utilities are dedicated to providing reliable energy to meet growing demand while also supporting companies' sustainability goals. Plant Vogtle Units 3 & 4 are one example of how Georgia utilities are expanding carbon-neutral energy options for communities and businesses. With all four units now in operation, Plant Vogtle is expected to produce over 30 million megawatt hours of electricity annually, with Unit 4 alone capable of powering an estimated 500,000 homes and businesses, according to Georgia Power.

Overall, Ritz's investment in a new facility in Waynesboro is a significant boost for the local economy and will create numerous job opportunities. With Georgia's strong support and resources, Ritz is poised for success in the North American market.

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