Largest private investment in Osijek since Croatia’s independence opens

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

The high-tech manufacturing facility of the American company Jabil was officially opened on Thursday in Osijek’s Nemetin Business Zone.

This is the largest private investment in Osijek since Croatia’s independence, and it is expected to create 1,500 new jobs in its first phase.

The facility, spanning 47,938 square metres, was constructed over 15 months, with over 1,000 workers from 140 different companies involved in the project.

It features state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to support clients in regulated industries, such as automotive, transportation, and healthcare.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Osijek’s Mayor, Ivan Radić, highlighted that the opening of the new facility is further proof that Osijek is a hub for innovation, technological advancement, and the development of human capital.

“This project reflects the confidence a global technology giant has in our city, which operates in 25 countries and employs 140,000 people. It also demonstrates the successful collaboration between the Croatian Government, the City of Osijek, Osijek-Baranja County, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University, and Jabil’s partners,” stated Mayor Radić.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

He added, “We are excited about the further development of the facility, as well as the expansion of our Nemetin Business Zone. With ongoing support from the government and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, we aim to continue expanding the zone, creating opportunities for new entrepreneurs and attracting both local and global investment projects.

With projects like Jabil, we are building a sustainable future, encouraging the growth of creative industries, innovation, and education.”

Radić also noted that Osijek currently has public sector projects underway worth 350 million euros, half of which is funded by the EU. Over the past two years, Osijek has been one of the most successful cities in securing EU funds, achieving record employment levels and the lowest unemployment rate in the last 15 years.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković stated that Jabil’s decision to choose Osijek over 16 other cities is evidence that Croatia, Slavonia, and Osijek have transformed their image.

“Experienced investors with a global perspective know where it’s worthwhile to invest, where there is a skilled workforce, a favourable geostrategic location, and development potential. They chose Osijek. Perhaps they chose it because, eight years ago, we committed 3 billion euros to support Slavonia and its five counties within the first two years of our mandate,” said Prime Minister Plenković.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

“A few years ago, we announced that Osijek would be the first 5G city in Croatia. The university programmes here invest in new talent and engineers. Ericsson Nikola Tesla set up its operations here a few years back, and Osijek-based company Orqa has made its mark globally. Jabil’s arrival will create around 1,500 jobs in the first phase, significantly enhancing economic ties between the United States and Croatia,” he added.

Fred McCoy, Jabil’s Executive Vice President of Global Operations, mentioned that after searching throughout Europe, they chose Osijek due to the strong support from local authorities, infrastructure, and educational institutions.

“At Jabil, our vision is to be the most advanced and reliable technology solutions provider in manufacturing. I am proud to bring that vision to Osijek,” he emphasised, adding that the facility is already delivering comprehensive solutions to clients.

“At Jabil, we manufacture everything from coffee machines to life-saving medical devices and automotive technologies. We are the brand behind the world’s biggest brands,” McCoy remarked.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Victor Manuel Morales, Regional Director for Operations Development, said that the new facility represents a shared vision of progress, innovation, and teamwork that will benefit the entire region.

“This is more than just a new factory. It marks the beginning of a journey full of opportunities. We are proud to expand our partnership with local communities in this region. This facility will drive innovation and growth, creating new jobs and shaping the future of advanced manufacturing information. It symbolises what we can achieve when businesses, governments, and communities come together,” said Morales.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

The opening ceremony was attended by Croatia’s Minister of Economy, Ante Šušnjar, the US Ambassador to Croatia, Nathalie Reyes, the Acting Prefect of Osijek-Baranja County, Mato Lukić, the Rector of Josip Juraj Strossmayer University in Osijek, Professor Vlado Guberac, and many other distinguished guests.