Daifuku Opens New Research and Development Hub: Kyoto Lab

Osaka, Japan—Daifuku Co., Ltd. (“Daifuku”) has established a new research and development hub, Kyoto Lab, in Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan. Operations began on November 6, marking a significant step in strengthening Daifuku’s R&D capabilities. The company plans to expand its talent pool by recruiting specialists in cutting-edge technologies such as IT engineering and artificial intelligence (AI). Combined with personnel from the design and development departments of each business unit, Kyoto Lab workforce is projected to reach 90 employees by fiscal 2027.

Until now, Daifuku’s R&D activities have primarily been conducted at its main manufacturing site, Shiga Works, where each business unit operated independently. Recognizing the growing need for expert talent in areas like digital transformation (DX) and AI, and the importance of accelerating development to respond to changing market conditions, Daifuku is establishing two new facilities: Kyoto Lab and Tokyo Lab (scheduled to open in 2026).

Kyoto Lab has a floor space of approximately 900 square meters and includes dedicated areas for each business unit. The facility will focus on advancing R&D in physical AI, control technologies for AGVs and robots, and software development for semiconductor production line transport systems. The facility also includes an open plan office space to promote cross-business collaboration. In addition, the lab offers convenient access to Shiga Works (approximately a one-hour drive), and can be commuted to from Osaka.

Hiroshi Geshiro, President and CEO, Daifuku Co., Ltd. commented:
Daifuku continues to leverage its core competence of material handling technology to raise efficiency in logistics and production site operations. With the opening of Kyoto Lab, we will accelerate the development of systems and services that pursue full automation while prioritizing sustainability—creating new value and driving further growth for the Daifuku Group.

Kyoto Lab overview