JLL forms new dedicated Advanced Manufacturing group

CHICAGO, June 02, 2025 – JLL announced today that it has formed the dedicated Advanced Manufacturing group, within its Industries team, to deliver specialized industry-leading expertise and integrated solutions to developers, occupiers and investors involved in the manufacturing of complex, customized products. The new group comprises a Center of Excellence (COE) that assembles JLL manufacturing experts across Leasing Advisory, Work Dynamics, Project and Development Services and Property Management to provide site selection, integrated facilities management, portfolio optimization, project management, occupancy planning and sustainability services.

 "We’ve strategically formed the Advanced Manufacturing group to address the evolving needs of an industry that’s rapidly transforming through technology," said Andy Poppink, CEO, Leasing Advisory, JLL. "Our team of experts is already operational and actively guiding clients through this dynamic landscape. Our goal is to transform traditional spaces into innovation centers that will serve as global models of manufacturing and set the tone for the next chapter in industrial advancement."

Advanced manufacturing transforms the production landscape by fusing state-of-the-art technologies with innovative processes. It integrates artificial intelligence, robotics, automation and real-time data analytics to streamline operations, boost precision, enhance productivity and conserve energy. These high-tech facilities produce materials such as semiconductors, EV batteries, aviation and automotive components, electronics, military equipment, medical technology and devices and more.

The group will be a hub for cross-industry and business collaboration across the manufacturing spectrum; it is led by Greg Matter, Vice Chair, Industrial Leasing and Site Selection, and Meredith O’Connor, Vice Chair, National Site Selection and Incentives, and in partnership with Meaghan Elwell, Division President, Global – Industrials, Work Dynamics.

“The regionalization trend is driving a transformation in advanced manufacturing,” Matter said. “Our team’s deep industry knowledge and innovative approach enables us to deliver tailored real estate solutions that drive efficiency and growth for our clients, making JLL a strategic partner. I’m thrilled to lead this initiative with Meredith and work alongside JLL partners across the business to transform the manufacturing real estate sector and unlock new possibilities for our clients.”

The manufacturing sector has undergone significant transformation in recent years, necessitating a specialized skill set to support industrial occupiers, owners, developers and investors. This evolution demands expertise in delivering goods safely and efficiently to consumers. JLL’s Advanced Manufacturing group is positioned to provide crucial services that enable clients to make strategic real estate decisions, adapt to dynamic geopolitical shifts and navigate changing economic landscapes.

“By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and energy-saving practices, we’re not just adapting to the future of manufacturing – we’re actively shaping it,” O’Connor added. “The JLL Advanced Manufacturing group builds a bridge across the various industry sectors with specialized manufacturing needs, including aerospace and defense, aviation, automotive, life sciences, clean energy and technology. I’m excited to work with Greg and other industry experts to take this innovative leap forward to create solutions for the unique challenges and opportunities for advanced manufacturing clients.”

According to JLL’s recently released U.S. Manufacturing Renaissance report, 52% of U.S. manufacturing inventory is between 30 and 60 years old, fueling a growing demand for modern facilities that can support advanced manufacturing processes and meet sustainability standards.

“The Fourth Industrial Revolution has ushered in a new era of manufacturing prowess,” said Travis McCready, Head of Industries, Leasing Advisory, JLL. “The synergy between digital advancements and time-honored manufacturing expertise is forging a future where industries are more flexible, innovative and environmentally conscious than ever before, and JLL – as one of the first commercial real estate firms to put this level of investment into advanced manufacturing – is ready for it.”

As global supply chains evolve, your manufacturing operations and real estate partner are more crucial than ever. From site selection to facility design and management, projects and operational optimization, JLL’s team of dedicated advanced manufacturing experts combine local market expertise, business intelligence and cutting-edge technology to deliver solutions to help you mitigate risk and maximize production. 

Whether you’re expanding or regionalizing your portfolio, modernizing facilities, or implementing new technologies, JLL’s comprehensive services ensure your advanced manufacturing spaces drive productivity, sustainability, and competitive advantage in today’s dynamic global marketplace. To learn more, www.jll.com/en-us/industries/manufacturing.

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