Fuji expands U.S. x-ray film operations

In a strong indication that its x-ray film business is healthy and growing, Fuji Photo Film has embarked on a $300-million expansion of its manufacturing and distribution operations in Greenville, SC. The expansion includes two new manufacturing facilities—one for color photographic film and photographic paper, the other for x-ray film finishing—and a major extension to the company’s existing distribution center.

The move is expected to have a positive impact on Fuji Medical Systems’ conventional and digital x-ray imaging businesses, according to the Stamford, CT-based subsidiary of Fuji Photo Film. In addition to streamlining Fuji Medical’s ordering and distribution channels, all x-ray film will now be finished, cut, and packaged in the U.S. rather than Japan, which should improve turnaround times and facilitate custom film orders. The addition of x-ray film finishing capabilities also represents a first step toward total domestic production of Fuji x-ray film for the U.S. market, according to the company. The two new factories are expected to be completed early next year.