ATLANTA – Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) officially celebrated the grand opening of its state-of-the-art headquarters in Sandy Springs, Atlanta, marking a significant milestone for the luxury automotive brand in the United States. The ceremony, held at the expansive 73-acre site, was attended by Dietmar Exler, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, Georgia Governor Nathan Deal, and other prominent figures, highlighting the importance of this new chapter for Mercedes-Benz in the US market. This strategic move underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation, employee empowerment, and its deepening roots within the vibrant Atlanta community.
Dietmar Exler emphasized the significance of the new Mercedes-Benz USA HQ, stating, “All the stars are aligned. Our new Atlanta headquarters marks a highpoint for Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. market. Not just in terms of being the leading luxury brand in the U.S. for the past two years, but also in terms of this building which is designed from the inside out to enable a creative, innovative and empowered workforce more representative of a start-up than a conventional corporation.” This statement encapsulates the vision behind the Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters – to create a dynamic and forward-thinking environment that fosters creativity and collaboration.
Purpose-Built for Innovation: Inside the Mercedes-Benz USA Headquarters
The Mercedes-Benz USA HQ is not just a building; it’s a meticulously designed ecosystem spanning 200,000 square feet, built to house over 1,000 employees. The architectural design prioritizes transparency and natural light, featuring a striking glass exterior supported by a robust steel structure. This design choice reflects the company’s ethos of openness and modernity, creating a workspace that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior.
The interior layout of the Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters is intentionally crafted to promote interaction and innovation. With a 1:1 ratio of collaborative spaces to individual workstations, the design encourages both focused work and spontaneous teamwork. The building is organized into North and South Work Bars, interconnected by a central Atrium, which serves as the social heart of the Mercedes-Benz USA HQ. Bridges on the second and third floors further link these Work Bars, enhancing connectivity and ease of movement throughout the facility.
Beyond workspaces, the Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters offers a suite of amenities designed to support employee well-being and productivity. These include a state-of-the-art conference center, a barista-staffed coffee bar, a high-quality café emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, a 5,000 square-foot fitness center with trainers, and an on-site childcare facility. A furnished roof deck provides an outdoor collaboration space, blending work with nature.
Sustainability and Community Integration at the Mercedes-Benz USA HQ
Reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainability, the Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters incorporates numerous environmentally-friendly features. Water reduction through drip irrigation and energy-efficient mechanical systems are key components in the pursuit of LEED Silver Certification. Furthermore, MBUSA is partnering with Second Helpings Atlanta Inc. to minimize food waste, aligning with their broader sustainability goals and community engagement.
To further reduce environmental impact and support employees, Mercedes-Benz USA HQ promotes alternative transportation. Initiatives include flexible work schedules, a dedicated MARTA shuttle, bike racks, and electric vehicle charging stations. These efforts demonstrate a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating environmental responsibility into daily operations and employee culture.
Governor Nathan Deal lauded Mercedes-Benz’s choice of Georgia for its USA headquarters, remarking, “What a beautiful building this is! It’s hard to top the seal of approval from the world to have Mercedes-Benz choose Georgia as its headquarters. Your service projects in the community have made you great neighbors, and we appreciate the Southern hospitality.” His words underscore the positive impact of Mercedes-Benz USA HQ on the local community and economy.
Lab1886 Atlanta: Fostering Automotive Innovation from the Mercedes-Benz USA HQ
Adding another layer of excitement to the grand opening, Axel Harries, Daimler Vice President, announced the establishment of Lab1886 in Atlanta. This global innovation hub, located within the Mercedes-Benz USA HQ, will function as an incubator, blending the resources of a major corporation with the agility of a startup. Atlanta will be the fourth Lab1886 location, joining existing hubs in Beijing, Berlin, and Stuttgart.
Harries explained Atlanta’s selection for Lab1886, stating, “In the last few years, we have watched Atlanta carefully: excellent colleges and universities are offering highly skilled and motivated graduates, and more and more innovative technology and digital companies make their home here. Atlanta is a true city of the future – a perfect match for Mercedes-Benz.” The presence of Lab1886 at the Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters positions Atlanta as a pivotal center for automotive innovation and technological advancement.
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for both the new Mercedes-Benz USA HQ and Lab1886. She highlighted the strong partnerships between Mercedes-Benz, local nonprofits, and the city government, emphasizing the company’s positive influence on Atlanta’s growth and development.
A Commitment to Atlanta and the Future of Mercedes-Benz USA
Beyond the economic benefits and architectural marvel of the Mercedes-Benz USA HQ, the company has demonstrated a deep commitment to the Atlanta community. MBUSA actively engages with over 50 local organizations, focusing on education and empowerment initiatives, particularly in Atlanta’s Westside area surrounding the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This community-focused approach reinforces Mercedes-Benz USA HQ‘s role as not just a business center, but also a responsible and engaged corporate citizen in Atlanta.
The opening of the Mercedes-Benz USA HQ in Atlanta signifies more than just a relocation; it represents a strategic investment in innovation, sustainability, and community. As Dietmar Exler articulated, this new headquarters is a high point for Mercedes-Benz in the U.S., designed to propel the company forward as a leader in the luxury automotive market and a vital part of the Atlanta landscape. The Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters is poised to be a hub of creativity, collaboration, and progress for years to come.
