Intuitive Opens €42 Million Robotics Facility in Bulgaria, Boosting Europe Expansion
Parvomay, The Gulf Observer: Intuitive, a leading U.S.-based pioneer in robotic and minimally invasive surgery, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art production facility in Parvomay, marking a major milestone in its European expansion strategy. The €42 million investment is Intuitive’s first site in Bulgaria and its third in Europe, following facilities in Germany.
Situated in Bulgaria’s Plovdiv region, the new production base will manufacture advanced 3D endoscopes and micro-optical components for the da Vinci Surgical System — a revolutionary robotic platform used by over 90,000 surgeons globally. The launch aligns with Intuitive’s 30th anniversary, commemorating three decades of surgical innovation since its founding in California in 1995.
The facility spans more than 17,000 square meters, encompassing both office and production space across two buildings. Currently employing over 110 professionals, the company plans to increase its local workforce to 300. The plant was designed with energy efficiency and environmental responsibility in mind, while also offering a high-quality, modern work environment.
Harald Haigis, General Manager for Europe at Intuitive, highlighted Bulgaria’s established optical manufacturing capabilities, strategic geographic position, and skilled engineering workforce as key reasons for selecting Parvomay for this significant investment.
“The new facility in Bulgaria strengthens our ability to deliver precision components to support surgeons and patients worldwide,” Haigis stated.
Stoyan Stoyanov, Senior Director of Operations for Bulgaria, emphasized the company’s dedication to cultivating a superior working environment, which he described as a cornerstone of Intuitive’s talent strategy.
Deputy Minister of Innovation and Growth Krasimir Yakimov lauded the project as a transformative investment for Parvomay, the Plovdiv region, and Bulgaria at large. “Intuitive’s presence affirms Bulgaria’s rising profile as a hub for high-tech manufacturing and aligns with our national priorities in healthcare innovation,” he remarked.
The opening ceremony was attended by local and regional leaders, including Parvomay Mayor Nikolay Mitkov and Plovdiv Regional Governor Prof. Dr. Hristina Yancheva. Representatives from hospitals, academia, government agencies, and industry associations also participated in the event, celebrating the arrival of a world-class medical technology firm in Bulgaria.
With nearly 17 million procedures performed using the da Vinci Surgical System worldwide, Intuitive’s expansion into Bulgaria marks a significant step toward strengthening Europe’s high-tech medical infrastructure.
