YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. announces the 50th anniversary of its Macon Factory, a milestone marking half a century of commitment to quality, innovation, sustainability, and community in the heart of Georgia.

YKK is celebrating this special occasion on May 4 with a Family Day dedicated to its employees. The event will feature speeches from notable figures including Mayor of Macon Lester Miller, Consul General of Japan Mio Maeda, YKK Corporation Chairman Masayuki Sarumaru, President of YKK Corporation of America Jim Reed, and President of YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. John Smith. In recognition of longstanding service, the company will honor employees who are marking their 45th through 50th anniversaries with the company. The ceremony will culminate in the rededication of the Heart of Friendship sculpture, a symbol of the enduring partnership between YKK and the City of Macon. Originally donated by YKK in 1974, the sculpture has recently been relocated to Carolyn Crayton Park.

John Smith, President of YKK (U.S.A.) Inc., highlighted the pivotal role of the Macon Factory in embodying the company’s philosophy and its enduring commitment to the community. “As we mark this significant milestone, we express our deep gratitude not only to our dedicated employees, whose tireless efforts have been instrumental, but also to the city of Macon for their unwavering support over the past fifty years. We are enthusiastic about extending this legacy of excellence and community partnership well into the future,” said Smith.

History of the YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. Macon Factory

Japan-based YKK first entered the U.S. market in 1960 as a zipper distributor in New York City, strategically located near the garment district. Founder Tadao Yoshida’s vision, however, extended beyond distribution to a model of vertical integration that epitomized the company’s “Cycle of Goodness” philosophy. This approach, by controlling the entire production process, was intended to ensure superior quality and cost efficiency, thereby benefiting customers, employees, and the broader community. 

As the U.S. textile industry’s epicenter shifted southward, Yoshida and a site selection team explored locations in Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia. Georgia emerged as a frontrunner due to its robust infrastructure, including four interstate highways, the deep-water port of Savannah, and a major international airport. The decision to settle in Georgia was clinched by a fortuitous meeting arranged by Cloyd Hall, a Macon native and Special Assistant to then-Governor Jimmy Carter, which led to an instant and profound connection between Yoshida and Carter. 

YKK’s strategic decision to establish its manufacturing facility just south of Macon in the newly developed Ocmulgee East Industrial Park heralded the start of a deep and enduring partnership with the region. This flagship manufacturing site’s journey began with a visit by prominent Macon leaders to YKK’s manufacturing center in Kurobe, Japan. Then, under the capable leadership of Yoshinori Kitano, construction and operation strategies were crafted and newly hired engineers, including future YKK Corporation of America CEO Alex Gregory, were trained in Japan, ensuring the transfer of YKK’s specialized manufacturing techniques to the Macon facility.

The new plant opened in 1974. The facility initially focused on producing zippers tailored to the specific needs of the American market, including varieties for clothing, furniture, and outdoor equipment. Over the decades, the factory has expanded dramatically, employing over 600 local residents and diversifying into advanced solutions for industries including automotive, government, and medical sectors. The Macon facility’s evolution from a modest operation to a key player in YKK’s global network exemplifies the company’s commitment to community and innovation.

Community Engagement

The Macon Factory has exemplified YKK’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, making significant contributions to local community projects and events for decades. In 1977, YKK played a pivotal role in establishing a sister city relationship between Kurobe, Japan, and Macon, Georgia. Over the past four decades, this partnership has fostered cultural exchange, with more than 1,100 citizens from both cities visiting each other's countries, enriching the local community and strengthening international ties.

YKK has also been a stalwart supporter of the Macon Cherry Blossom Festival, an annual event that unites the community to celebrate the cultural and natural beauty of Macon. YKK’s involvement includes substantial sponsorships and active participation in the festival’s activities. Notably, in 1990, YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. donated $300,000 towards the construction of a dedicated building for the festival organizers, complemented by $60,000 worth of land donated by the city of Macon. Chairman Tadahiro Yoshida personally attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Each year, YKK proudly continues its support as a festival sponsor.

YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. is committed to sustaining the legacy of its founder by continuing to enhance the prosperity of Macon, enriching Georgia, and advancing the global textile industry.