What's Happening?
On, a Swiss athletic company, is expanding its LightSpray technology by opening a new production facility near Busan, South Korea. This facility, equipped with 32 fully automated robots, aims to increase the brand's global LightSpray production capacity
30-fold in 2026. The expansion follows the opening of On's first facility in Zurich in July 2025, which initially housed four robots. The new factory is part of On's strategy to scale the technology globally, with plans for further production growth in the coming years. The choice of South Korea was strategic due to the country's leadership in robotics and automation, as well as On's existing partnerships in the region. The factory will produce the LightSpray Cloudmonster 3 Hyper, set for a limited release in North America on March 5, with a global launch on April 16.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of On's LightSpray technology represents a significant advancement in automated shoe production, potentially setting a new standard in the footwear industry. By increasing production capacity, On can meet growing global demand and explore new applications for LightSpray technology beyond elite athletic shoes. This move also highlights the importance of automation and robotics in modern manufacturing, which can lead to increased efficiency and sustainability. The strategic location in South Korea allows On to leverage local expertise in robotics, potentially enhancing the quality and innovation of its products. This expansion could position On as a leader in high-performance, sustainable footwear, impacting the competitive landscape of the athletic shoe market.
What's Next?
On plans to continue expanding its LightSpray production capabilities globally, with intentions to establish factories in the Americas and Europe. This expansion will likely involve further innovations in automated manufacturing processes and the exploration of new product categories. As On scales its operations, it may face challenges related to maintaining quality standards and managing increased production volumes. The company's success in these endeavors could influence other footwear brands to adopt similar technologies, potentially leading to broader industry shifts towards automation and sustainability.
