Midea expands Louisville research center to boost U.S. appliance innovation

Midea America Corp. has opened an expanded research facility in Louisville, Kentucky, significantly increasing its capacity for appliance innovation. The company announced the opening of its enlarged Midea America Research Center on September 30, 2026.

The expansion added 127,000 square feet of additional space and 22 new laboratories. The center's total footprint grew by about 400% to 157,000 square feet. The upgraded facility now includes a product showroom, an auditorium, and dedicated collaboration spaces.

Justin Reinke, President of Midea America Corp., emphasized the human-centric approach. "The most meaningful innovations start with a deep understanding of people’s lives," he said.

Growth from a single employee to a major innovation hub

What began in 2015 with one team member has grown into a 157,000-square-foot center employing around 130 people and driving key product advancements. Adam Schultz, the center's Executive Director, highlighted this journey. "What began with one employee has grown into a research and innovation organization of approximately 130 talented people," Schultz stated.

The center supports Midea's U.S. research across a wide range of home appliance categories. These include refrigeration, dishwashers, cooking, laundry, air treatment, floor care, and small appliances. It has already contributed to several product innovations.

Key innovations developed at MARC include the STRAWash Dishwasher with Total Tumbler Clean, the 50/50 Flex Upright Convertible Freezer, and the OneTouch AutoFill French Door Refrigerator.

Midea’s broader innovation and talent development strategy

The expanded center is intended to strengthen U.S. research, engineering, and product-development capabilities. It also supports Midea's ongoing investment in the Louisville area. Midea America is a U.S. subsidiary within Midea Group, a Fortune 500 company.

Midea Group operates globally with over 166,000 employees in more than 200 countries. Its U.S. headquarters are in Parsippany, New Jersey, with this innovation hub located in Kentucky.

The company collaborates with universities through co-op programs. These initiatives give students practical experience in research, engineering, and product development. This strategy supports the development of future engineering and innovation talent.

Midea America Research Center now employs approximately 130 people and continues to support U.S. research and innovation across refrigeration, dishwashers, cooking, laundry, air treatment, floor care, and small appliances.